Ultrasound guidance for Port-A-Cath insertion in children; a comparative study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Vascular Access Procedures
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Pediatric vascular access is challenging.
• Ultrasound guidance is standard for adults but not established in children.
• Evaluating ultrasound-guided Port-A-Cath insertion in pediatric patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• Compare ultrasound-guided versus landmark-based Port-A-Cath insertion in children.
• Assess operative time and insertion-related complications.
• Determine the efficacy and safety of ultrasound guidance in pediatric populations.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of 169 pediatric patients.
• Group A: Landmark method (n=117).
• Group B: Ultrasound-guided method (n=52).
• Comparison of operative time and complications.

Main Results:

• Mean operative time: 47 min (landmark) vs. 41.7 min (ultrasound).
• Fewer guidewire insertion failures with ultrasound (2 vs. 11).
• Higher insertion-related complications in the landmark group (P=0.053).

Conclusions:

• Ultrasound-guided Port-A-Cath insertion is effective and safe in children.
• Reduces failure rates and operative time.
• Recommended as the standard technique for pediatric Port-A-Cath insertion.