[Experience in the use of Broviac catheters in children with hematologic neoplastic diseases]

Between 1990 and 1994, 61 Broviac catheters were implanted in 53 children with haematological neoplastic diseases. The mean duration of catheter function was 206 days (range 14-615 days). The total observation time was 12544 days, during which 84 catheter-related complications were recorded, i.e. 6.7 per 1000 catheter use days. Infections occurred with a frequency of 3.8 episodes/1000 cath, days, the majority of which were bacteriemias (2.6/1000 cath, days). Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains were the isolated etiologic agents with equal frequency. Most of infectious episodes (85%) responded well to initial empiric antibiotics treatment without removal of the catheters. Mechanica complications (occlusion, displacement or catheter leakage) occurred significant less frequently and were managed by repairing or replacing the device or clearing the block. No deaths were related to catheter complications. In conclusion indwelling Broviac catheters offer a safe and effective method of long-term venous access. Infections are the most frequent catheter-related complications.