Complications of central venous access devices in paediatric haemophilia patients

J A Domm1, M G Hudson, R L Janco

  • 1Vanderbilt Hemostasis-Thrombosis Clinic, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.

Insights

Central venous access devices (CVADs) effectively provide venous access for children with hemophilia undergoing treatment. While complications like bacteremia and thrombosis can occur, the benefits of CVADs outweigh the risks for these patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Hematology
  • Vascular Access Devices
  • Hemostasis and Thrombosis

Background:

  • Children with severe hemophilia require reliable venous access for treatments like immune tolerance induction and factor prophylaxis.
  • Central venous access devices (CVADs) are often utilized to ensure consistent access.
  • Assessing the safety and efficacy of CVADs in this pediatric population is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the experience and complication rates associated with central venous access devices (CVADs) implanted in pediatric hemophilia patients.
  • To determine the effectiveness of CVADs for immune tolerance induction or factor prophylaxis in children with hemophilia.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective survey was conducted on 30 central venous catheters implanted in 22 children with hemophilia between 1986 and 2000.
  • Catheter insertions were performed under sterile conditions, with dedicated nurse-led training on catheter care and access.
  • Complication rates, including bacteremia and thrombosis, were analyzed based on catheter-days.

Main Results:

  • The study identified bacteremia and thrombosis as the most common complications associated with CVADs.
  • A sepsis rate of 0.30 per 1000 catheter-days (1 episode per 3346 days) and a thrombosis rate of 0.13 per 1000 catheter-days (1 episode per 7529 days) were observed.
  • The overall infection rate was lower than in several previously reported series.

Conclusions:

  • Implantable central venous catheters are an effective method for venous access in pediatric hemophilia patients.
  • The benefits of using CVADs in managing pediatric hemophilia outweigh the documented risks.
  • Future prospective studies are recommended to further define risks and develop strategies for their reduction.

Related Concept Videos

Disorders of Hemostasis01:24

Disorders of Hemostasis

Hemostasis, the process that stops bleeding after a blood vessel injury, is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the circulatory system. However, disorders of hemostasis can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to either excessive clotting or bleeding. These disorders can be broadly classified into thromboembolic disorders and bleeding disorders.
Thromboembolic Disorders
Two factors primarily cause thromboembolic conditions.
Parentral Nutrition: Centeral and Peripheral Parental Nutrition01:27

Parentral Nutrition: Centeral and Peripheral Parental Nutrition

Parenteral Nutrition (PN) delivers essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. It is commonly used for individuals with severe digestive disorders or conditions that prevent normal nutrient absorption.
PN can be administered through two primary routes:
1. Central Parenteral Nutrition (CPN):
CPN involves delivering a high concentration of nutrients through a large vein. This is typically achieved using a Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) or,...
Endocarditis IV: Nursing Management01:29

Endocarditis IV: Nursing Management

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a chronic infection of the heart's endocardium, primarily affecting the heart valves. A detailed nursing assessment for a patient with IE involves collecting subjective and objective data to ensure an accurate diagnosis and timely intervention.Subjective DataThe nurse gathers information about the patient's symptoms and complaints during the subjective assessment. Patients with infective endocarditis often report non-specific symptoms that can mimic other...
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care01:29

Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care

Venous thrombosis requires effective prevention and treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes and reduce potential complications.Prevention StrategiesHealthcare providers must prioritize preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE) for all adult patients upon admission. Interventions depend on bleeding and thrombosis risk, medical history, current medications, diagnoses, planned procedures, and patient preferences. Patients on bed rest should change positions every two hours and, if not...
Hemodialysis I: Introduction01:25

Hemodialysis I: Introduction

Hemodialysis (HD) is a medical treatment that artificially removes waste products, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood when the kidneys are no longer able to perform these functions effectively. In this process, blood is filtered through a semipermeable membrane, allowing for the selective removal of waste while preserving necessary components like blood cells and proteins. Hemodialysis is typically performed in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or severe kidney...
Hemodialysis II: Procedure and Complications01:24

Hemodialysis II: Procedure and Complications

DialyzersA hemodialysis (HD) dialyzer is a plastic cartridge containing thousands of parallel hollow fibers, which serve as semipermeable membranes. These fibers are typically made from cellulose-based or other synthetic materials. During HD, blood is pumped into the top of the cartridge and distributed among these fibers. Simultaneously, dialysis fluid, known as dialysate, is introduced into the bottom of the cartridge, bathing the outside of the fibers. Across the semipermeable membrane,...