Key Benefits
- Extended catheter life — proper lock and flush protocols significantly extend catheter patency and reduce study attrition from catheter failure
- Reduced contamination risk — pre-filled syringes and sealed vials eliminate the variability and infection risk of manual solution preparation
- Integrated system — PinPort vial caps and syringes are compatible with all Instech PinPort-equipped catheters and VABs
Overview
Maintaining catheter patency is critical for the success of long-term vascular access studies. Instech catheter care products provide everything needed for routine catheter maintenance, including lock solution vials, pre-filled flush syringes, and complete maintenance kits.
The PinPort vial cap provides a convenient, sterile method for accessing lock solution vials using the same PinPort connectors used throughout the Instech vascular access system. Pre-filled syringes eliminate the variability and contamination risk associated with manual preparation of flush solutions.
Key Features
- Lock solution vials for maintaining catheter patency between access events
- Pre-filled flush solution syringes for standardised catheter flushing
- Catheter maintenance kits with all components for routine care
- PinPort vial cap for aseptic access to lock solution vials
- Heparinised and non-heparinised lock solution formulations available
- Compatible with all Instech PinPort-equipped catheters and VABs
- Sterile packaging for GLP-compliant studies
Typical Applications
- Routine catheter maintenance in chronic vascular access studies
- Catheter locking between infusion or sampling sessions
- Pre- and post-procedure catheter flushing
- GLP toxicology and pharmacokinetic study catheter care
- Long-term catheterisation studies in mice and rats
Specifications
| Lock Solutions | Heparinised and non-heparinised formulations |
|---|---|
| Flush Syringes | Pre-filled, sterile, single-use |
| Vial Cap Type | PinPort-compatible vial cap |
| Compatibility | All Instech PinPort-equipped catheters and VABs |
| Storage | Room temperature (lock solutions); refer to product label |
| Sterilisation | Sterile packaging (EtO or gamma irradiation) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I flush and lock my catheters?
Flushing and locking frequency depends on the study protocol and catheter type. As a general guideline, flush every 7 days for closed VAB systems and every 3–4 days for exteriorised PinPort catheters. Consult Instech technical resources for species-specific recommendations.
What is the difference between a lock solution and a flush solution?
A flush solution (typically heparinised saline) is used to clear the catheter lumen of blood and debris. A lock solution is instilled into the catheter and left in place between access events to prevent clot formation and maintain patency.
Can I use the PinPort vial cap with non-Instech vials?
The PinPort vial cap is designed to fit standard laboratory vial sizes. Contact Walker Scientific to confirm compatibility with your specific vial dimensions.
Are pre-filled syringes necessary, or can I prepare my own?
While manual preparation is possible, pre-filled syringes provide consistent concentration, sterility, and convenience. They eliminate the variability associated with manual dilution and reduce contamination risk, which is particularly important in GLP studies.
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