Access Vascular this week received FDA clearance for its second-generation HydroPICC peripherally inserted central catheter.

The HydroPICC has demonstrated thrombus accumulation rate 30 times less than traditional peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC), according to the company.

PICCs can help reduce the risk of catheter occlusions have become a popular choice over traditional central venous lines because of ease of use, decreased risk, reduced cost and the ability to be placed by non-physicians. Traditional PICCs are made of polyurethanes or silicones that absorb proteins and attract thrombus.

HydroPICC is made of the company’s patented biomaterial platform that uses the mechanical properties of polyurethanes with the low thrombogenicity of hydrogel. The material is lubricious and hydrophilic and can repel proteins and thrombus development.

Access Vascular plans to develop a number of thrombus-resistant venous catheters and devices from its biomaterial, including midlines, peripherally inserted venous catheters, ports, central venous catheters and dialysis catheters.

“The importance of improving the biocompatibility of materials that reside within the intravascular space cannot be overemphasized. Despite attention to optimal site choice and catheter to vein ratios, patients often develop fibrin associated bloodstream infections, that use these depositions as basecamps for biofilm formation,” medical advisor to Access Vascular and professor of anesthesiology Gregory Schears said in a news release. “A material that could combat these issues has the potential to significantly improve vascular access throughout the body.”

HydroPICC offers easy insertion and new features that can streamline placement time based on clinician feedback from the first-generation catheter.

“We are excited about the potential of our biomaterial to address significant and underserved clinical needs in venous access,” CEO James Biggins said. “Clinician response to HydroPICC has been strong and we look forward to working closely with key clinical leaders and centers to integrate the new technology into their practices to the betterment of both the care team and their patients.”