[Epidemiological features and complications of central venous catheters in pediatric oncology: prospective study

H Boussen1, M H Mtaallah, T Bouzid

  • 1Service de carcinologie médicale, institut Salah-Azaïz, 1006, boulevard du 9-Avril, Tunis, Tunisie. hamouda.boussen@rns.tn

Insights

Implantable venous access devices significantly reduce complications in pediatric oncology patients compared to external catheters. These devices improve care quality and longevity for children undergoing cancer treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Vascular Access Devices
  • Cancer Treatment Complications

Background:

  • Central venous catheters (CVCs) are crucial for administering chemotherapy and supportive care in pediatric oncology.
  • Managing CVCs involves risks of early and late complications impacting patient outcomes.
  • Evaluating the safety and efficacy of different CVC types is essential for optimizing pediatric cancer care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To document the indications for CVC insertion in Tunisian pediatric oncology patients.
  • To analyze early and late catheter-related complications associated with CVC use.
  • To compare the performance of exteriorized catheters versus implantable sites.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study conducted in a pediatric oncology unit from 1989 to 2005.
  • Inclusion of 115 pediatric patients (58 girls, 57 boys) with various cancers.
  • Placement and monitoring of central venous catheters, differentiating between exteriorized (EC) and implantable sites (IS).

Main Results:

  • 123 CVCs were successfully placed, with 43 exteriorized and 80 connected to implantable sites.
  • Early complications included pneumothorax (3.2%) and arterial punctures (4.8%).
  • Late complications primarily involved infection (5.7%), with implantable sites demonstrating a significantly longer mean catheter life (305.2 days vs. 64.4 days).

Conclusions:

  • Implantable venous access sites represent a significant advancement in pediatric oncology care.
  • These devices enhance the quality of venous access and reduce complications in children with cancer.
  • The study highlights the benefits of implantable sites for long-term venous access in this population.
Abstract

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