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A.V.A.: a novel approach to venous access

Introduction

Central venous access is an integral part of patient care. The dilemma was whether to insert an introducer or multilumen catheter for access. However, the Advanced Venous Access device (A.V.A.) from Baxter now offers the option of a single device to accomplish multiple functions with one stick. The object of this study was to compare maximal flow rates of this new device with other introducers utilizing the Haemonetics Rapid Infusion System (R.I.S.) and the more traditional pressurized I.V. system

Test methods

Devices tested with the traditional system were: Baxter A.V.A., which incorporates a 9F PA access with one distal (D) and two proximal lumens (P1&P2); Arrow 9F; Argon 9F. The test system has been described previously. Devices tested with the RIS were the Baxter A.V.A. and the Arrow 9F introducer. Fluids measure were saline and a blood/plasma mixture. The RIS was set up in a manner to continually infuse fluids through the device using a cut-off pressure of 300 mmHg to judge maximum flow. Devices were tested with PA catheters (7.5F & 8F). Results the A.V.A. are shown in various configurations: AVA(1)=D+P1;AVA(2)=P1+P2; AVA(3)=D+P1+P2 (Fig. 1).

Results

In the traditional I.V. system, the A.V.A. delivered higher flows than all other introducers. Figure 1 below shows flow rate results for the RIS system.

figure 1

Figure.1

Discussion

In all categories, the Advanced venous Access device delivered higher flows than the other introducers. Therefore, the A.V.A. device offers a new dimension in central access for trauma, critical care, and high blood loss surgeries (i.e. liver transplants). It now gives us the ability to monitor the circulation and infuse fluids with fewer venous punctures.

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Lichtenthal, P., De Wolf, A. A.V.A.: a novel approach to venous access. Crit Care 3 (Suppl 1), P059 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1186/cc434

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