Performance of tunnelled, non-cuffed central venous catheters in infants: A scoping review

To summarise and critique existing knowledge and evidence relating to the utility, and post-insertion complications surrounding tunnelled non-cuffed central venous catheters (tncCVCs) in infants.

A scoping review of original research studies reporting the use of, and post-insertion complications associated with, tncCVCs in infants was completed. MeSH terms were used to formulate a systematic search, and data were extracted using a customised data extraction form. Data were analysed descriptively across key themes based on the research questions. Study quality was evaluated using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

The systematic search generated 3994 studies, of which 9 studies met final inclusion criteria. Studies included 644 tncCVCs in infants based in the USA, Europe and Australia. Most studies were retrospective cohort studies. The most common vein of insertion, where individually specified, was the internal jugular (n = 177). Tunnel length, where reported, was 2.5-5 cm. Infection rates were most commonly reported (eight studies), with results ranging from 0 to 12.8%, and device dislodgements of up to 20% reported. Participant follow-up and definition of complications varied greatly between studies. Study quality across all papers was sound.

This review has identified only a small number of studies, with small participant numbers, reporting the performance of tncCVCs in infants. Definitions of complications measured varied significantly between studies, and vastly different patient follow-up protocols were reported. Further larger-scale studies on the performance of tncCVC, employing internationally recognised reporting standards is warranted to ensure clinicians can make informed choices for medication and infusion delivery.