Central Venous Catheter-associated Venous Thromboembolism in Children: A Prospective Observational Study

Insights

Catheter-related thrombosis (CRT) affects over 40% of pediatric patients with central venous catheters (CVCs). Prolonged CVC duration is a significant risk factor for developing CRT in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric critical care medicine
  • Vascular access and thrombosis
  • Medical device-related complications

Background:

  • Central venous catheters (CVCs) are essential in pediatric care but associated with complications.
  • Catheter-related thrombosis (CRT) is a significant concern in children requiring CVCs.
  • Understanding CRT risk factors in pediatric populations is crucial for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence of CRT in pediatric patients undergoing CVC insertion.
  • To identify risk factors associated with the development of CRT in this cohort.
  • To compare CRT risk between different types of venous access devices.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study enrolling 104 pediatric patients (29 days to 18 years) with percutaneous non-tunneled CVCs.
  • Diagnosis of CRT using ultrasonography with venous Doppler scan within 48 hours of CVC removal.
  • Analysis of patient demographics, CVC duration, insertion indications, and outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Catheter-related thrombosis (CRT) was observed in 43.3% of pediatric patients.
  • The incidence rate of CRT was 35.69 per 1000 CVC days.
  • Increased CVC duration was independently associated with a higher risk of CRT (OR, 1.06; 95% CI 1.0-1.1; P =0.02).
  • A higher risk of symptomatic CRT was noted with central venous catheters compared to hemodialysis sheaths.

Conclusions:

  • Catheter-related thrombosis is highly prevalent in pediatric patients with CVCs, with a majority being asymptomatic.
  • The duration of CVC placement is a critical, independent risk factor for CRT development.
  • Clinical vigilance and potentially shorter CVC dwell times are important for mitigating CRT risk in pediatric patients.