Quantitiative Analysis of Roughness of Catheters by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM).

Abstract Thrombosis is a major complication of central venous access devices, and incidence depends on material, diameter, tip position, and tip surface. Catheters are usually cut to the appropriate length for accurate positioning. However, cutting is not recommended as rough surfaces can serve as a nidus for thrombi. This study was done to assess the roughness of the catheter tips as provided by various manufacturers, versus …