Analisis Perbedaan Mikroskopis Kateter Intravena Teflon dan Vialon Terhadap Risiko Thrombophlebitis: Pilot Study

Microscopic Difference Analysis of Teflon and Vialon Intravenous Catheters on the Risk of Thrombophlebitis: A Pilot Study

Authors

  • Irvan Maulana BIMC Hospital Nusa Dua
  • Luh Putu Wahyu Ernitya Department of Laboratory, BIMC Hospital Nusa Dua, Badung, Bali, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.52263/jfk.v16i1.352

Keywords:

Intravenous catheter, Teflon, Thrombophlebitis, Vialon

Abstract

Intravenous catheters are widely used medical devices but carry risks of complications such as thrombophlebitis. Catheter material is considered an important factor, with Teflon (PTFE) being stiffer and more likely to irritate the endothelium, while Vialon (polyurethane) is smoother, more flexible, and potentially more biocompatible. This study aims to assess the microscopic differences in the surfaces of Teflon and Vialon IV catheters using light microscopy, and to find findings with potential clinical assistance regarding the risk of thrombophlebitis. This study was a descriptive observational pilot study. Samples included Teflon catheters (20G and 24G, both new and used) and Vialon 24G catheters. Observations were conducted using an Olympus CX31 light microscope at 10x magnification. Descriptive analysis compared surface characteristics such as texture, color, smoothness, scratches, and signs of degradation across materials and sizes. Vialon catheters demonstrated a smoother and more uniform surface compared to the rougher and irregular surface of Teflon. After use, Teflon 20G catheters appeared opaque, rough, and scratched, indicating higher structural degradation, while Teflon 24G remained more transparent and relatively intact. These differences suggest that Vialon and smaller gauge catheters may reduce endothelial irritation and vascular complications. Findings highlight the importance of material and size selection in clinical practice. Vialon showed better biocompatibility than Teflon, while larger diameter catheters were more prone to surface abrasion. Further studies with larger samples and higher-resolution microscopy are needed to validate these findings.

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Published

2026-03-17

How to Cite

Maulana, I., & Ernitya, L. P. W. (2026). Analisis Perbedaan Mikroskopis Kateter Intravena Teflon dan Vialon Terhadap Risiko Thrombophlebitis: Pilot Study: Microscopic Difference Analysis of Teflon and Vialon Intravenous Catheters on the Risk of Thrombophlebitis: A Pilot Study. Jurnal Forum Kesehatan : Media Publikasi Kesehatan Ilmiah, 16(1), 31–36. https://doi.org/10.52263/jfk.v16i1.352