Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
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Infusion thrombophlebitis is common and is the principal limitation to intravenous nutrition (IVN) via a peripheral vein, yet its precise pathogenesis is unclear. Prospective observations were performed on patients in whom a hypertonic, acidic, nutritional emulsion was infused via fine-bore polyurethane catheters placed in peripheral veins. ⋯ Contrary to previous reports, no evidence of venospasm was observed. It is suggested that previous evidence of venoconstriction is erroneous and that other mechanisms are responsible for thrombophlebitis.