Related Experiment Videos
Emergency catheterization of the superior vena cava in pediatric patients
Insights
Emergency central venous catheterization in children is safe and effective. This study shows a high success rate and no complications in pediatric patients with life-threatening conditions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine
- Vascular Access Procedures
- Critical Care
Background:
- Superior vena cava catheterization is a critical procedure for critically ill patients.
- Emergency placement of central venous catheters in children presents unique challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the success rate and safety of emergency superior vena cava catheterization in pediatric patients.
- To assess complications associated with percutaneous central venous catheterization in children under emergency conditions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of all superior vena cava catheterization attempts.
- Inclusion criteria: patients < 13 years old with life-threatening conditions.
- Data collection on success rates, catheter placement, and complications.
Main Results:
- 60 attempts in 41 pediatric patients with life-threatening conditions.
- Successful catheterization in 68.3% of attempts.
- 90.2% of patients had at least one central catheter placed successfully.
- No complications impacted patient outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Percutaneous central venous catheterization is a viable emergency procedure for critically ill children.
- High success rates and a low complication profile are achievable.
- This technique can be safely implemented in emergency settings for pediatric patients.
Abstract:
All emergency department attempts at superior vena caval catheterization at Hennepin County Medical Center from 1978 to 1982 in patients less than 13 years of age are reviewed. There were 60 attempts on 41 patients who had life-threatening conditions. Forty-one (68.3%) catheterization attempts were successful, and 37 (90.2%) of the patients had at least one central catheter placed. There were no complications that affected any patient's hospital course or outcome. This series demonstrates that percutaneous central venous catheterization can be performed on seriously ill or injured children, under emergency conditions, with a high rate of success and low incidence of complications.