Paracentesis Catheter Fixator: Introducing a New Instrument and a Pilot Study

Background: Paracentesis is a common bedside therapeutic and diagnostic procedure that requires insertion of a catheter into the peritoneal cavity; however, lack of a specialized fixator for securing the catheter causes frequent catheter kinking and patient discomfort. Objectives: This study aimed to demonstrate the efficacy of a designed paracentesis fixator in reducing patient discomfort and procedure failure rates. Materials and Methods: This interventional study was conducted on 20 patients referred to Imam Khomeini General Hospital for therapeutic paracentesis. A fixator was used to secure the catheter in the experimental group. This designed fixator consisted of an inverted plastic cup with six square-shaped appendages, a cylinder-shaped tube, a flexible silicone hose in continuation of the cylindrical tube, and a connector piece. In the control group, catheter was fixed using tape and sterile gauze. A questionnaire regarding subjective discomfort and overall satisfaction was filled by patients after the procedure. Results: Mean score for subjective discomfort was significantly lower (P = 0.03) and patients’ overall satisfaction was higher in the experimental group (P = 0.04) in comparison to control group. Failure occurred in 20% and 70% of patients in the experimental and control groups, respectively. Coclusions: The designed paracentesis fixator effectively secures the catheter, reduces catheter kinking incidents, and improves patient's comfort and satisfaction.