Risk factors for catheter-related thrombosis in cancer patients: a systematic review

Background

Central venous access devices (CVADs) are indispensable in cancer care, particularly for chemotherapy administration, nutritional support, and blood product transfusion. Catheter-related thrombosis (CRT), one of the most common non-infectious complications associated with CVADs, may result in treatment delays, increased healthcare costs, and potentially life-threatening events such as pulmonary embolism. Although numerous studies have investigated risk factors for CRT among cancer patients, no comprehensive systematic review has synthesized existing evidence, which hinders the formulation of evidence-based prevention and intervention strategies.