Cathflo® (Alteplase) Declotting Therapy

 

 

What Is Cathflo?

 

Cathflo® (alteplase) is a medication used to restore function to occluded central venous catheters, such as PICC lines, ports, and central lines. These catheters can become blocked by clotted blood or fibrin, preventing them from being used for treatments like medications, nutrition, or blood draws.

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Why Do We Use Cathflo?

 

Over time, catheters can become partially or completely blocked. This blockage can:

 

• Prevent blood return or medication administration.

• Delay treatment.

• Lead to unnecessary catheter removal or replacement.

 

Cathflo works by dissolving the clot that’s causing the blockage, restoring catheter patency without invasive procedures.

 

 

When Should Cathflo Not Be Used?

 

Cathflo is not appropriate in certain situations, including:

 

• Known or suspected catheter damage or breakage.

• Catheter infection or evidence of systemic infection.

• Recent major surgery, active internal bleeding, or a bleeding disorder.

• If the catheter is occluded for a non-thrombotic reason (e.g., mechanical kink, malposition).

 

At Optimus Vascular, we thoroughly assess each case to determine if Cathflo is the safest and most effective option.

 

 

Benefits of Cathflo Declotting

 

• Restores function quickly (usually within 30–120 minutes).

• Minimally invasive—no need for catheter removal.

• Cost-effective compared to surgical interventions.

• Reduces patient discomfort and delays in treatment.

 

 

Risks and Potential Complications

 

Cathflo is generally safe but, like all medical treatments, it carries some risks:

 

• Bleeding or hematoma at the catheter site.

• Allergic reactions (rare).

• Embolization if large clots are dislodged.

• Incomplete resolution, requiring a second dose or line replacement.

 

Our trained clinicians at Optimus Vascular monitor every case closely to maximize safety and effectiveness.

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Need Help With a Blocked Line?

 

If your patient’s central line isn’t working, don’t remove it just yet. Contact Optimus Vascular—we’ll respond promptly and aim to restore function within 4 hours or no service fees, as part of our commitment to excellence.

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At Optimus Vascular, we provide on-site Cathflo administration to quickly restore catheter function—avoiding unnecessary line removal and replacement.

 

💡 If the PICC was inserted by Optimus Vascular, there is absolutely NO service charge for Cathflo.

📞 Call us now or use our online request form to schedule a Cathflo service visit.