Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 12, 2026
Computed Tomography (CT) Guided Implantation of a Totally Implantable Venous Access Port (TIVAP) through Subclavian Vein
Published on: January 13, 2026
Clinical risk factors for central line-associated venous thrombosis in children
Samir H Shah1, Alina Nico West2, Robert J Sepanski3
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital Memphis , Memphis, TN , USA.
Insights
Femoral central venous line (CVL) placement and NICU placement increase the risk of central line-associated venous thrombosis (CLAVT) in children. Catheter brand also impacts CLAVT risk, necessitating alternative strategies for prevention.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Thrombosis
- Vascular Access Devices
- Healthcare-Associated Infections
Background:
- Central venous lines (CVLs) are crucial but associated with central line-associated venous thrombosis (CLAVT).
- Identifying pediatric risk factors for CLAVT is essential for prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify clinical factors associated with CLAVT in pediatric patients.
- To inform strategies for minimizing CLAVT incidence in children.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 3733 CVLs placed over 3 years.
- Data extracted from electronic medical records for patients with diagnosed venous thromboembolism.
- Statistical analysis of patient and CVL characteristics (type, brand, site, unit).
Main Results:
- Femoral CVL placement significantly increased CLAVT risk (OR 11.1).
- CVLs placed in the NICU showed increased CLAVT occurrence (OR 5.3).
- CVL brand was also a significant risk factor for CLAVT.
Conclusions:
- Femoral CVL placement and NICU location are independent risk factors for pediatric CLAVT.
- Mechanical factors and infant vulnerability likely contribute to increased thrombotic events.
- Alternative CVL strategies, thromboprophylaxis, and early diagnosis are crucial for reducing CLAVT.
Background:
Identifying risk factors related to central venous line (CVL) placement could potentially minimize central line-associated venous thrombosis (CLAVT). We sought to identify the clinical factors associated with CLAVT in children.
Methods:
Over a 3-year period, 3733 CVLs were placed at a tertiary-care children's hospital. Data were extracted from the electronic medical records of patients with clinical signs and symptoms of venous thromboembolism, diagnosed using Doppler ultrasonography and/or echocardiography. Statistical analyses examined differences in CLAVT occurrence between groups based on patient and CVL characteristics (type, brand, placement site, and hospital unit).
Results:
Femoral CVL placement was associated with greater risk for developing CLAVT (OR 11.1, 95% CI 3.9-31.6, p < 0.0001). CVLs placed in the NICU were also associated with increased CLAVT occurrence (OR 5.3, 95% CI 2.1-13.2, p = 0.0003). CVL brand was also significantly associated with risk of CLAVT events.
Conclusion:
Retrospective analyses identified femoral CVL placement and catheter type as independent risk factors for CLAVT, suggesting increased risks due to mechanical reasons. Placement of CVLs in the NICU also led to an increased risk of CLAVT, suggesting that small infants are at increased risk of thrombotic events. Alternative strategies for CVL placement, thromboprophylaxis, and earlier diagnosis may be important for reducing CLAVT events.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:27Parentral Nutrition: Centeral and Peripheral Parental Nutrition
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,...
01:26Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...
01:29Endocarditis IV: Nursing Management
01:22Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...
01:17Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Distribution
01:29Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care