From the Guidelines
The main difference between an AccuCath IV and a ProGlide midline IV is their intended duration and placement depth, with AccuCath suitable for short-term use and ProGlide midline for medium-term therapy. The AccuCath is a short peripheral intravenous catheter designed for short-term use (typically up to 7 days) and is inserted into a peripheral vein with the catheter tip remaining in the peripheral vasculature 1. In contrast, a ProGlide midline IV is a longer catheter that extends deeper into the vasculature but stops short of the central veins, allowing for medium-term therapy lasting up to 29 days, although panelists noted that midline catheters may be used for up to 4 weeks and are approved for such duration of use 1. Some key points to consider when deciding between these two options include:
- Intended duration of therapy: AccuCath for short-term (up to 7 days) and ProGlide midline for medium-term (up to 29 days)
- Placement depth: AccuCath remains in peripheral vasculature, while ProGlide midline extends deeper but stops short of central veins
- Insertion procedure: AccuCath insertion is simpler and can often be done without imaging, while ProGlide midline may require ultrasound guidance
- Suitable medications: ProGlide midline can accommodate most IV medications except those requiring central line administration
- Infection and dislodgement rates: Midlines have lower rates compared to standard peripheral IVs 1. Given these differences, AccuCath is suitable for short-term general IV needs, while ProGlide midlines are better for patients requiring extended IV therapy but not needing a central venous catheter.
From the Research
Overview of Accucath IV and Proglide Midline IV
- The Accucath IV and Proglide Midline IV are types of vascular access devices used for administering intravenous therapy.
- While specific differences between the two are not directly mentioned in the provided studies, we can infer some characteristics based on the information about midline catheters and long peripheral catheters.
Characteristics of Midline Catheters
- Midline catheters are typically 15-25 cm in length and terminate in the axilla 2.
- They are often used for medium-term (1-4 weeks) intravenous therapy 2.
- Midline catheters have been shown to have longer uncomplicated indwelling times compared to long peripheral catheters 3.
- They may be a feasible alternative to central venous access in certain critically ill patients 4.
Comparison with Long Peripheral Catheters
- Long peripheral catheters are typically 6-15 cm in length and terminate distal to the axilla 2.
- They are often used for difficult venous access 2.
- The risk of catheter-related complications is higher for long peripheral catheters compared to midline catheters 3.
Clinical Use and Recommendations
- The choice between midline catheters and long peripheral catheters should consider the planned duration of intravenous therapy, the patient's clinical condition, and the cost of the device 3.
- Vascular access specialists generally agree on the classification of peripheral intravenous devices based on length and tip location 2.
- Further studies are needed to confirm the findings and establish clear guidelines for the use of midline catheters and long peripheral catheters 5, 6.