[Peripheral insertion of central catheters in the treatment of pediatric patients with leukemia]

In this paper we analyzed group of patients with leukemias in which was implanted peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC), which is safe and permanent intravenous line necessary for treatment in these patients.

In the period from January 1999. to September 2000. at the Oncology Department on Pediatric Clinic in Sarajevo we placed PICC in 18 patients with leukemia. Catheters were introduced through vena cubitalis and EMLA was used like local anestetic, All these manipulations were done with respect to asepsa rules. Tip of the catheter had to be situated in vena cava superior and its right position was checked by ultrasound. Management of catheter included everydays heparinisation, according strictly ordered rules and respect asepsa rules.

PICC was placed in 18 patients with average of 6.5 years. According sex there were 61.1% males, and 38.9% females. Average period of using catheter was 2.7 months. In 44.4% cases catheter was taken out after finished treatment, but in 22.2% cases we had mechanical complications (spontaneous breakage of catheter or stop in it). In 33.3% patients catheter is still in function.

Using PICC in patients with leukemia made significantly easier their treatment regarding decreasing of their traumatisation, regarding simplier vein access and reduction of the infection. In our investigated group we had not infection what was very important fact for outcome of this serious disease.