Prevention of infusion thrombophlebitis.

Thrombophlebitis is a frequent and discomforting complication following infusions into peripheral veins. In controlled clinical and animal experiments, it has also been shown that following factors reduce the risk of development of infusion thrombophlebitis: a short infusion time, neutralization of the acid glucose solutions, addition of heparine to sugar solutions, use of short and thin needles instead of plastic cannulae or 30 cm-teflon catheters, use of 5% glucose instead of more concentrated solutions and use of glucose in preference to fructose. The importance of in-line membrane filters is not convincing, and the addition of hydrocortisone and the effects of changing administration sets seem without clinical importance. In conclusion, it is possible in clinical praxis to follow principles, which minimize the risk of the unpleasant and long-lasting complication - infusion thrombophlebitis.