Venous thrombosis and stenosis after peripherally inserted central catheter placement in children

Caliber of the deep veins of the arm in infants and neonates: The VEEIN study (Vascular Echography Evaluation in Infants and Neonates)

PURPOSE

Ultrasound-guided peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are increasingly used in children, though their insertion may be limited by the small caliber of the deep veins of the arm. Previous studies have suggested to use age or weight as a guide to the feasibility of PICC insertion. We have planned an observational study with the purpose of identifying the actual feasibility of PICC insertion based on the ultrasound evaluation of the deep veins of the arm in groups of children of different weight range.

METHODS

We have studied 252 children weighing between 2.5 and 20 kg, divided in five different groups (group 1: 2.5-4 kg; group 2: 4.1-7 kg; group 3: 7.1-10 kg; group 4: 10.1-15 kg; group 5: 15.1-20 kg): the caliber of brachial vein, basilic vein, and cephalic vein at mid-upper arm + the caliber of the axillary vein at the axilla were measured by ultrasound scan.

RESULTS

Veins of caliber >3 mm (appropriate for insertion of a 3 Fr non-tunneled PICC) were found at mid-upper arm in no child of group 1 or 2, in 13% of group 3, in 28% of group 4, and in 54% of group 5. An axillary vein >3 mm (appropriate for insertion of a 3 Fr tunneled PICC) were found in 5.8% of group 1, 30.6% of group 2, 67% of group 3, 82% of group 4, and 94% of group 5.

CONCLUSIONS

The age and the weight of the child have a small role in predicting the caliber of the veins of the arm. Veins should be measured case by case through a proper and systematic ultrasound evaluation; however, the clinician can expect that insertion of a 3 Fr PICC may be feasible in one third of children weighing between 4 and 7 kg, and in most children weighing more than 7 kg, especially if adopting the tunneling technique.

Safety of non-cuffed tunneled central venous catheters in adults with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are the most common route of intravenous (I.V.) access for treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) pulmonary exacerbations, but repeated PICC placement can result in upper extremity peripheral venous stenosis. Once peripheral stenosis develops, a non-cuffed tunneled central venous catheter (NcTCVC) is an alternative route for IV access. While these are regularly used at some CF centers, the safety and complication rate compared to PICCs in adults with CF has not been reported. This study aims to describe the safety of NcTCVCs in adults with CF.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed at a CF Foundation accredited institution including adults with CF who received NcTCVCs in interventional radiology from 7/19/2007 to 3/09/2020. Complications analyzed included catheter related deep venous thrombosis (DVT), central line associated blood stream infection (CLABSI), and catheter related central venous stenosis. Complications were considered attributable if they occurred while the catheter was in place or within 30 days of catheter removal.

RESULTS

During the study duration, 386 NcTCVCs were placed in 60 unique patients (55 % female) with a mean of 6.4 catheters per patient. Majority of NcTCVCs placed were 4 French (61.4 %). Average duration of indwelling NcTCVC was 16.2 days. No patients demonstrated catheter attributable symptomatic DVT. The incidence of DVT, CLABSI, and central venous stenosis was 0 (0 %), 4 (1 %), and 1 (0.3 %), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Many adults with CF have required insertion of numerous PICCs for the treatment of recurrent pulmonary exacerbations. In those adults that develop PICC-associated peripheral vein stenosis precluding PICC placement, these results indicate NcTCVCs are a safe alternative.

Percutaneous Image-Guided Treatment of Pediatric Deep-Vein Occlusions

Pediatric venous occlusions are a growing cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in hospitalized patients. Catheter-directed recanalization is a safe and effective treatment option in appropriately selected patients. Benefits of catheter directed therapies (CDTs) include the prevention of pulmonary embolism and end organ failure acutely as well as superior vena cava syndrome and post-thrombotic syndrome chronically. Timely diagnosis, recognition of underlying factors for thrombosis, and familiarity with the spectrum of tools and techniques for CDT are essential to optimizing outcomes in the acute setting. Recanalization of chronic venous occlusions can similarly provide symptomatic relief and achieve long term vessel patency. This review will detail the scope, techniques, and outcomes for CDT in the treatment of acquired systemic deep vein occlusions.

Risk factors and incidence of central venous access device-related thrombosis in hospitalized children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The risk factors for central venous access device-related thrombosis (CRT) in children are not fully understood. We used evidence-based medicine to find the risk factors for CRT by pooling current studies reporting risk factors of CRT, aiming to guide clinical diagnosis and treatment.

METHODS

A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, CNKI, Sinomed, and Wanfang databases was conducted. RevMan 5.4 was employed for data analysis.

RESULTS

The review included 47 studies evaluating 262,587 children with CVAD placement. Qualitative synthesis and quantitative meta-analysis identified D-dimer, location of insertion, type of catheter, number of lumens, catheter indwelling time, and central line-associated bloodstream infection as the most critical risk factors for CRT. Primarily due to observational design, the quality of evidence was regarded as low certainty for these risk factors according to the GRADE approach.

CONCLUSION

Because fewer high-quality studies are available, larger sample sizes and well-designed prospective studies are still needed to clarify the risk factors affecting CRT. In the future, developing pediatric-specific CRT risk assessment tools is important. Appropriate stratified preventive strategies for CRT according to risk assessment level will help improve clinical efficiency, avoid the occurrence of CRT, and alleviate unnecessary suffering of children.

IMPACT

This is the latest systematic review of risk factors and incidence of CRT in children. A total of 47 studies involving 262,587 patients were included in our meta-analysis, according to which the pooled prevalence of CRT was 9.1%. This study identified several of the most critical risk factors affecting CRT in children, including D-dimer, insertion location, type of catheter, number of lumens, catheter indwelling time, and central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI).

Clinical practice recommendations on lipoprotein apheresis for children with homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia: An expert consensus statement from ERKNet and ESPN

Homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia is a life-threatening genetic condition, which causes extremely elevated LDL-C levels and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease very early in life. It is vital to start effective lipid-lowering treatment from diagnosis onwards. Even with dietary and current multimodal pharmaceutical lipid-lowering therapies, LDL-C treatment goals cannot be achieved in many children. Lipoprotein apheresis is an extracorporeal lipid-lowering treatment, which is used for decades, lowering serum LDL-C levels by more than 70% directly after the treatment. Data on the use of lipoprotein apheresis in children with homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia mainly consists of case-reports and case-series, precluding strong evidence-based guidelines. We present a consensus statement on lipoprotein apheresis in children based on the current available evidence and opinions from experts in lipoprotein apheresis from over the world. It comprises practical statements regarding the indication, methods, treatment goals and follow-up of lipoprotein apheresis in children with homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia and on the role of lipoprotein(a) and liver transplantation.

Device Related Thrombosis and Bleeding in Pediatric Health Care: A Meta-analysis

CONTEXT

The risk of invasive device-related thrombosis and bleeding contributes to morbidity and mortality, yet their prevalence by device-types is poorly understood.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to estimate pooled proportions and rates of thrombotic and bleeding complications associated with invasive devices in pediatric health care.

DATA SOURCES

Medline, CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane CENTRAL, clinical trial registries, and unpublished study databases were searched.

STUDY SELECTION

Cohort studies and trials published from January 2011 to June 2022, including (1) indwelling invasive devices, (2) pediatric participants admitted to a hospital, (3) reporting thrombotic and bleeding complications, and (4) published in English, were included.

DATA EXTRACTION

Meta-analysis of observational studies in epidemiology guidelines for abstracting and assessing data quality and validity were used.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Device-specific pooled thromboses (symptomatic, asymptomatic, unspecified) and bleeding (major, minor).

RESULTS

Of the 107 studies, 71 (66%) focused on central venous access devices. Symptomatic venous thromboembolism in central venous access devices was 4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 3-5; incidence rate 0.03 per 1000 device-days, 95% CI, 0.00-0.07), whereas asymptomatic was 10% (95% CI, 7-13; incidence rate 0.25 per 1000 device-days, 95% CI, 0.14-0.36). Both ventricular assist devices (28%; 95% CI, 19-39) and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (67%; 95% CI, 52-81) were often associated with major bleeding complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This comprehensive estimate of the incidence and prevalence of device-related thrombosis and bleeding complications in children can inform clinical decision-making, guide risk assessment, and surveillance.

Clinical practice recommendations on lipoprotein apheresis for children with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia: an expert consensus statement from ERKNet and ESPN

Homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia is a life-threatening genetic condition, which causes extremely elevated LDL-C levels and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease very early in life. It is vital to start effective lipid-lowering treatment from diagnosis onwards. Even with dietary and current multimodal pharmaceutical lipid-lowering therapies, LDL-C treatment goals cannot be achieved in many children. Lipoprotein apheresis is an extracorporeal lipid-lowering treatment, which is well established since three decades, lowering serum LDL-C levels by more than 70% per session. Data on the use of lipoprotein apheresis in children with homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia mainly consists of case-reports and case-series, precluding strong evidence-based guidelines. We present a consensus statement on lipoprotein apheresis in children based on the current available evidence and opinions from experts in lipoprotein apheresis from over the world. It comprises practical statements regarding the indication, methods, treatment targets and follow-up of lipoprotein apheresis in children with homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia and on the role of lipoprotein(a) and liver transplantation.

Evaluation of venous thromboembolism risk factors reveals subtype heterogenicity in children with central venous catheters: a multicenter study from the Children's Hospital Acquired Thrombosis consortium

BACKGROUND

Acutely ill and medically complex children frequently rely on central venous catheters (CVCs) to provide life-sustaining treatment. Unfortunately, catheter-related thrombosis (CRT) is a serious and common complication. Little is known why some with a CVC develop CRT and others develop venous thromboembolism unrelated to the CVC (non-CRT).

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with CRT in children with hospital-acquired venous thromboembolism (HA-VTE).

METHODS

This case-case study included participants in the Children's Hospital Acquired Thrombosis Registry with HA-VTE and CVC aged 0 to 21 years from 8 US children's hospitals. Participants were excluded if they developed HA-VTE prior to CVC insertion or if the CVC insertion date was unknown. Logistic regression models were used to assess associations between clinical factors and CRT status.

RESULTS

There were 1144 participants with HA-VTE who had a CVC. CRT developed in 833 participants, and 311 developed non-CRT. Multivariable analysis showed increased odds of CRT (compared with non-CRT) in participants with peripherally inserted central catheters (odds ratio [OR], 3.80; 95% CI, 2.04-7.10; p < .001), CVCs inserted in the femoral vein (OR, 4.45; 95% CI, 1.70-11.65; p = .002), multiple CVCs (OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.18-1.71; p < .001), and CVC malfunction (OR, 3.30; 95% CI, 1.80-6.03; p < .001).

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study provide new insights on risk factor differences between CRT and non-CRT. Prevention efforts should be directed at modifying the type of CVC, insertion location, and/or number of CVCs placed, if possible, to decrease the incidence of CRT.

Biomarkers Associated with Thrombosis in Patients with Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

The measurement and identification of plasma biomarkers can support the estimation of risk and diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) associated with the use of a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC).

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to identify the association between the levels of potential biomarkers that reflect the activation of the blood system, long-term vascular complications, inflammatory system, and the occurrence of PICC-related DVT.

METHODS

Seven electronic databases (Embase, Web of Science, Medline, Scopus, Cinahl, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ERIC) were searched to identify literature published until December 2022. Studies were required to report: (I) adult and pediatric patients, outpatient or admitted to clinical, surgical, or ICU with PICC; (II) patients with PICC-related DVT and patients without PICC-related DVT as a comparator; and (III) at least one biomarker available. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to evaluate the quality of the studies. Study precision was evaluated by using a funnel plot for platelets level. We provided a narrative synthesis and meta-analysis of the findings on the biomarkers' outcomes of the studies. We pooled the results using random effects meta-analysis. The meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager software v5.4. This systematic review is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42018108871).

RESULTS

Of the 3564 studies identified (after duplication removal), 28 were included. PICC-related DVT was associated with higher D-dimers (0.37 μg/mL, 95% CI 0.02, 0.72; p = 0.04, I² = 92%; p for heterogeneity < 0.00001) and with higher platelets (8.76 × 10⁹/L, 95% CI 1.62, 15.91; p = 0.02, I² = 41%; p for heterogeneity = 0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

High levels of D-dimer and platelet were associated with DVT in patients with PICC. However, biomarkers such as APTT, fibrinogen, FDP, glucose, hemoglobin, glycated hemoglobin, INR, prothrombin time, prothrombin fragment 1.2, the thrombin-antithrombin complex, and WBC were not related to the development of DVT associated with PICC.

Difficult Vascular Access in Children with Short Bowel Syndrome: What to Do Next?

Short Bowel Syndrome and intestinal failure are chronic and severe conditions that may require life-long parenteral nutrition in children. Survival of these children rely on the correct functioning of central venous catheters; therefore, careful management, prevention, and treatment of complications is of paramount importance. Despite a growing awareness of preserving the vascular real estate, a certain number of patients still experience a progressive and life-threatening exhaustion of vascular access. We searched the literature to highlight the current management of children with vascular exhaustion, specifically focusing on vascular access salvage strategies and last-resource alternative routes to central veins. Given the paucity of data, results are reported in the form of a narrative review.

Time-Driven Cost Analysis of Noncuffed Venous Catheter Placement in Infants: Bedside versus IR Suite

PURPOSE

To compare the direct bundled costs of interventional radiology (IR) suite versus bedside placement of noncuffed central venous catheters in infants.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective review was performed of all noncuffed upper extremity (peripherally inserted central venous catheter [PICC]) and tunneled femoral (tunneled femoral central venous catheter [TCVC]) catheters placed in infants between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2018. Propensity score matching was performed adjusting for age, birth weight, procedure weight, and catheter days. Process maps for each procedure were created based on location and sedation type. Technical success and complications were recorded for each placement. The total direct bundled cost for each catheter placement was calculated by summing the procedure and complication costs.

RESULTS

A total of 142 procedures were performed on 126 matched patients with a technical success of 96% at the bedside and 100% in the IR suite (P = .08). The complication rates did not significantly differ between the 2 groups (P = .51). The total direct bundled costs for catheter placement were $1421.3 ± 2213.2 at the bedside and $2256.8 ± 3264.7 in the IR suite (P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The bundled cost of bedside femoral catheter placement is significantly less than that of fluoroscopic TCVC and PICC placement performed in the IR suite, mainly related to differences in sedation costs.

Management of Central Venous Access in Children With Intestinal Failure: A Position Paper From the NASPGHAN Intestinal Rehabilitation Special Interest Group

ABSTRACT

Intestinal failure requires the placement and maintenance of a long-term central venous catheter for the provision of fluids and/or nutrients. Complications associated with this access contribute to significant morbidity and mortality, while the loss of access is an increasingly common reason for intestinal transplant referral. As more emphasis has been placed on the prevention of central line-associated bloodstream infections and new technologies have developed, care for central lines has improved; however, because care has evolved independently in local centers, care of central venous access varies significantly in this vulnerable population. The present position paper from the Intestinal Failure Special Interest Group of the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) reviews current evidence and provides recommendations for central line management in children with intestinal failure.

"Save the Vein" Initiative in Children With CKD: A Quality Improvement Study

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE

The preferred vascular access for hemodialysis recipients is an arteriovenous fistula in the nondominant arm. Prior placement of a peripheral intravenous (PIV) catheter can lead to vascular injury and limit options for arteriovenous fistula creation, a particular problem for children, who may need hemodialysis for their entire lifetime. We instituted an initiative to increase the frequency of PIV catheter placement in the dominant arm for hospitalized pediatric patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD).

STUDY DESIGN

Quality improvement initiative.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

Children with CKD stage 3-5, receiving dialysis, and/or following kidney transplantation who were hospitalized at one children's hospital between September 2018 and August 2020.

QUALITY IMPROVEMENT ACTIVITIES

Retrospective data on PIV catheter location for patients from January 1 to June 30, 2017, served as baseline data. Quality improvement activities consisted of: 1) education of the multidisciplinary treatment team, patients, and parents regarding importance of vein preservation; 2) placement of individualized notes in the electronic medical record identifying the preferred arm for PIV catheter placement; 3) use of "restricted extremity" arm bands; and 4) vascular access team participation to minimize attempts for PIV catheter placement.

OUTCOME

Monthly compliance with placement of PIV catheters in dominant arms.

ANALYTICAL APPROACH

Location of PIV catheter placements were determined monthly and used to create run charts describing compliance.

RESULTS

At baseline and before institution of this initiative, 34 of 72 (47%) PIV catheters were placed in patients' dominant arms, with only 2 of 8 (25%) PIV catheters placed in the dominant arm for children aged<5 years. After instituting the initiative, 345 of 371 (93%) PIV catheters were placed in the dominant arm of 93 children; in children aged<5 years, 58 of 62 (94%) PIV catheters were placed in the dominant arm. Only 38 of 371 (10%) PIV catheters were placed in the antecubital vein.

LIMITATIONS

Single-center study.

CONCLUSIONS

Education regarding the importance of vein preservation, along with implementation of a standardized process for identifying children for whom vein preservation is important, can help direct PIV catheter placement and potentially preserve vasculature in pediatric patients with CKD.

Occurrence and Risk Factors for Unplanned Catheter Removal in a PICU: Central Venous Catheters Versus Peripherally Inserted Central Venous Catheters

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to identify the occurrence and risk factors for unplanned catheter removal due to catheter-associated complications and the effects on catheter survival probability in a PICU.

DESIGN

Retrospective, single-center, observational study of cases involving conventional central venous catheters or peripherally inserted central venous catheters.

SETTING

The PICU of a tertiary children's hospital.

PATIENTS

Consecutive PICU patients with central venous catheters between April 2016 and February 2019.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

We identified unplanned catheter removals that were related to central line-associated bloodstream infection, thrombosis, and mechanical complications. During the study period, 582 central venous catheters and 474 peripherally inserted central venous catheters were identified. The median durations of catheter placement were 4.0 days for central venous catheters and 13.0 days for peripherally inserted central venous catheters (p < 0.001), and unplanned catheter removals due to catheter-associated complications were in 52 (8.9%) central venous catheter cases and 132 (27.8%) peripherally inserted central venous catheter cases (p < 0.001) (15.0 and 16.0 per 1,000 catheter-days, respectively [p = 0.75]). Unplanned catheter removal was associated with a peripheral catheter tip position among both central venous catheters and peripherally inserted central venous catheters (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001), and it was associated with surgical patient status among peripherally inserted central venous catheters (p = 0.009). In contrast, the use of ultrasound-guided insertion was associated with a lower occurrence of unplanned catheter removal among peripherally inserted central venous catheters (p = 0.01). With regard to catheter survival probability, there was no significant difference between central venous catheters and peripherally inserted central venous catheters (p = 0.23). However, peripherally inserted central venous catheters had a lower occurrence of central line-associated bloodstream infection than central venous catheters (p = 0.03), whereas there was no significant difference in the rates of thrombosis (p = 0.29) and mechanical complications (p = 0.84) between central venous catheters and peripherally inserted central venous catheters.

CONCLUSIONS

In a PICU, peripherally inserted central venous catheters had lower occurrence of central line-associated bloodstream infection than central venous catheters; however, similar catheter survival probabilities were observed between both catheters. A central catheter tip position for both catheters and ultrasound-guided insertion for peripherally inserted central venous catheters may help limit unplanned catheter removal due to catheter-associated complications.

Effects of the MAGIC Guidelines on PICC Placement Volume: Advanced Practice Provider and Physician Trends Among Medicare Beneficiaries From 2010 to 2018

BACKGROUND. The Michigan Appropriateness Guide for Intravenous Catheters (MAGIC) was published in 2015, recommending more restricted indications for peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) placement, particularly for those placed by physicians. Changes in PICC placement volume since the publication of MAGIC is largely unknown. OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article was to study the trends in volume and reimbursement for PICC placement by physicians and advanced practice providers (APPs) for Medicare enrollees from 2010 to 2018 with specific attention to the changes in volume after the publication of MAGIC in 2015. METHODS. Claims from the Medicare Part B Physician/Supplier Procedure Summary Master File for the years 2010-2018 were extracted using the Current Procedural Terminology code for PICC placement. Total volume and payment amounts (for the professional component) were analyzed. Trendline slopes for volume per 100,000 Medicare beneficiaries before and after the 2015 publication of MAGIC were compared. RESULTS. Volume for PICC placement by physicians and APPs steadily declined from 243,837 in 2010 to 130,361 in 2018 (46.5%). The PICC placement volume decreased sharply after the 2015 publication of the MAGIC guidelines. The slope of the trendline for all providers from 2010 to 2015 was -3.4 compared with -7.3 from 2015 to 2018. The change in slope was more pronounced for radiologists (-3.1 to -5.6) than for APPs (0.0 to -1.1). Professional payment per procedure for radiologists decreased from $78.04 in 2010 to $70.17 in 2018, and reimbursement for APPs proportionally decreased from $65.76 to $60.66 during this time. The relative share of PICC placement by radiologists declined from 77.0% in 2010 to 70.6% in 2018, with a corresponding increase in relative share by APPs from 13.5% to 18.4%. The percentage placed in outpatient procedures increased from 15.1% to 18.2%. CONCLUSION. The volume of PICC placements has steadily decreased since 2010, with a sharper decline between 2015 and 2016 corresponding with the publication of the MAGIC evidence-based guidelines. The role of APPs in PICC placement has increased over this time period. CLINICAL IMPACT. The findings of this study suggest that evidence-based guidelines impact clinical practice on a national level.

Hospital Charges Associated with Central Venous Stenosis in Pediatric Patients Requiring Long-Term Central Venous Access

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the hospital charges associated with central venous stenosis in pediatric patients requiring long-term central venous catheters, via associated charges and hospital length of stay (LOS).

STUDY DESIGN

This institutional review board-approved retrospective review identified pediatric patients with central venous catheters and either short bowel syndrome (SBS) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD) diagnosed between 2008 and 2015 using the Pediatric Health Information System. These 2 cohorts were selected because long-term central venous access is commonly required for survival. Prevalence of central venous stenosis, total number of admissions, procedures, LOS, and associated charges were recorded. Statistical analysis performed with Wilcoxon nonparametric and 2-sample t test with a significance of P < .05.

RESULTS

Of 4952 patients with SBS and 4665 patients with ESRD, 169 (3.4%) patients with SBS and 191 (4.1%) patients with ESRD were diagnosed with central venous stenosis (360 patients total [3.7%]). The cumulative median admissions and LOS was higher in patients with SBS with central venous stenosis (15 admissions and 156 days) vs those without central venous stenosis (5 admissions and 110 days) (P < .001). The cumulative median number of admissions and LOS was higher in patients with ESRD with central venous stenosis (13 admissions and 72 days) vs those without central venous stenosis (7 admissions and 42 days) (P < .001). The mean cumulative charges for patients with SBS with central venous stenosis were higher than for those without central venous stenosis ($1.89 million vs $1.11 million, respectively) (P < .001). Similarly, the mean cumulative charges for patients with ESRD with central venous stenosis were higher than for those without central venous stenosis ($1.17 millions vs $702 000, respectively) (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric patients with central venous stenosis have significantly higher total charges, imaging charges, number of admissions, and longer LOS. Attention to mitigate the incidence of central venous stenosis in pediatric patients requiring long-term central venous access is warranted.

Vascular access in children requiring maintenance haemodialysis: a consensus document by the European Society for Paediatric Nephrology Dialysis Working Group

BACKGROUND

There are three principle forms of vascular access available for the treatment of children with end stage kidney disease (ESKD) by haemodialysis: tunnelled catheters placed in a central vein (central venous lines, CVLs), arteriovenous fistulas (AVF), and arteriovenous grafts (AVG) using prosthetic or biological material. Compared with the adult literature, there are few studies in children to provide evidence based guidelines for optimal vascular access type or its management and outcomes in children with ESKD.

METHODS

The European Society for Paediatric Nephrology Dialysis Working Group (ESPN Dialysis WG) have developed recommendations for the choice of access type, pre-operative evaluation, monitoring, and prevention and management of complications of different access types in children with ESKD.

RESULTS

For adults with ESKD on haemodialysis, the principle of "Fistula First" has been key to changing the attitude to vascular access for haemodialysis. However, data from multiple observational studies and the International Paediatric Haemodialysis Network registry suggest that CVLs are associated with a significantly higher rate of infections and access dysfunction, and need for access replacement. Despite this, AVFs are used in only ∼25% of children on haemodialysis. It is important to provide the right access for the right patient at the right time in their life-course of renal replacement therapy, with an emphasis on venous preservation at all times. While AVFs may not be suitable in the very young or those with an anticipated short dialysis course before transplantation, many paediatric studies have shown that AVFs are superior to CVLs.

CONCLUSIONS

Here we present clinical practice recommendations for AVFs and CVLs in children with ESKD. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system has been used to develop and GRADE the recommendations. In the absence of high quality evidence, the opinion of experts from the ESPN Dialysis WG is provided, but is clearly GRADE-ed as such and must be carefully considered by the treating physician, and adapted to local expertise and individual patient needs as appropriate.

Evidence-Based Strategies and Recommendations for Preservation of Central Venous Access in Children

Children with chronic illness often require prolonged or repeated venous access. They remain at high risk for venous catheter-related complications (high-risk patients), which largely derive from elective decisions during catheter insertion and continuing care. These complications result in progressive loss of the venous capital (patent and compliant venous pathways) necessary for delivery of life-preserving therapies. A nonstandardized, episodic, isolated approach to venous care in these high-need, high-cost patients is too often the norm, imposing a disproportionate burden on affected persons and escalating costs. This state-of-the-art review identifies known failure points in the current systems of venous care, details the elements of an individualized plan of care, and emphasizes a patient-centered, multidisciplinary, collaborative, and evidence-based approach to care in these vulnerable populations. These guidelines are intended to enable every practitioner in every practice to deliver better care and better outcomes to these patients through awareness of critical issues, anticipatory attention to meaningful components of care, and appropriate consultation or referral when necessary.

Vascular Access Choice, Complications, and Outcomes in Children on Maintenance Hemodialysis: Findings From the International Pediatric Hemodialysis Network (IPHN) Registry

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE

Arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) have been recommended as the preferred vascular access for pediatric patients on maintenance hemodialysis (HD), but data comparing AVFs with other access types are scant. We studied vascular access choice, placement, complications, and outcomes in children.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective observational cohort study.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

552 children and adolescents from 27 countries on maintenance HD followed up prospectively by the International Pediatric HD Network (IPHN) Registry between 2012 and 2017.

PREDICTOR

Type of vascular access: AVF, central venous catheter (CVC), or arteriovenous graft.

OUTCOME

Infectious and noninfectious vascular access complication rates, dialysis performance, biochemical and hematologic parameters, and clinical outcomes.

ANALYTICAL APPROACH

Univariate and multivariable linear mixed models, generalized linear mixed models, and proportional hazards models; cumulative incidence functions.

RESULTS

During 314 cumulative patient-years, 628 CVCs, 225 AVFs, and 17 arteriovenous grafts were placed. One-third of the children with an AVF required a temporary CVC until fistula maturation. Vascular access choice was associated with age and expectations for early transplantation. There was a 3-fold higher living related transplantation rate and lower median time to transplantation of 14 (IQR, 6-23) versus 20 (IQR, 14-36) months with CVCs compared with AVFs. Higher blood flow rates and Kt/V_urea were achieved with AVFs than with CVCs. Infectious complications were reported only with CVCs (1.3/1,000 catheter-days) and required vascular access replacement in 47%. CVC dysfunction rates were 2.5/1,000 catheter-days compared to 1.2/1,000 fistula-days. CVCs required 82% more revisions and almost 3-fold more vascular access replacements to a different site than AVFs (P<0.001).

LIMITATIONS

Clinical rather than population-based data.

CONCLUSIONS

CVCs are the predominant vascular access choice in children receiving HD within the IPHN. Age-related anatomical limitations and expected early living related transplantation were associated with CVC use. CVCs were associated with poorer dialysis efficacy, higher complication rates, and more frequent need for vascular access replacement. Such findings call for a re-evaluation of pediatric CVC use and practices.

Increased risk of symptomatic upper-extremity venous thrombosis with multiple peripherally inserted central catheter insertions in pediatric patients

BACKGROUND

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are associated with superficial and deep venous thrombosis of the arm.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to analyze the sequelae of repeated upper limb PICC insertions in children, in terms of the frequency of upper limb thrombosis in this patient group.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study population included all children who underwent their first successful arm PICC insertion between January 2010 and December 2015. We included subsequent ipsilateral arm PICCs in the analysis. Patients were followed until March 2016 or until any alternative central venous line insertion. For each PICC insertion, we collected demographic variables and line characteristics. We correlated all symptomatic deep and superficial thromboses of the arm with the PICC database.

RESULTS

Applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 2,180 PICCs remained for analysis. We identified first, second, third and fourth PICC insertions in the same arm in 1,955, 181, 38 and 6 patients, respectively. In total there were 57 upper body deep symptomatic thrombotic events. An increasing odds ratio was seen with higher numbers of PICC insertions, which was significant when comparing the first with the third and fourth PICC insertions in the same arm (odds ratio [OR] 6.00, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.25-16.04, P=0.0004). Double-lumen PICCs were associated with a significantly higher risk of thrombosis than single lumen (OR 2.77, 95% CI 1.72-4.47, P=0.0003).

CONCLUSION

Repetitive PICC insertions in the same arm are associated with an increased risk of symptomatic thrombosis. Double-lumen PICCs are associated with a higher risk of thrombosis compared to single-lumen lines.

Improving haemodialysis fistula maturation following early ultrasound vascular mapping: 'The Venous Preservation Scan'

AIM

Formation of autogenous arteriovenous fistula (AVF) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is complicated by a high primary failure rate. We hypothesized that early (months to years before AVF creation) Venous Preservation Scan (VPS) followed by vasculature preservation is effective in protecting the patient's best 'for fistula' vasculature. This study was performed to evaluate the impact of VPS on AVF outcomes.

METHODS

The case records of 123 patients who underwent ultrasound mapping for AVF creation in a district hospital were reviewed. Ninety-seven were VPS and 26 were Routine Pre-Operative Planning Scan (RPOPS) performed immediately prior to surgery. Outcomes of 21 patients who went onto AVF creation in the VPS group were compared to 23 patients in the RPOPS group.

RESULTS

Success and complication rates for AVF placement in patients who underwent VPS versus RPOPS were 100% versus 91.3% (P = 0.27) and 0 versus 8.7% (P = 0.23). A greater proportion of AVF created following RPOPS required intervention before maturation (47.6% vs 19%, P = 0.05). The median primary patency of AVF created following VPS versus RPOPS was 492 (IQR 222, 1219) versus 169 (IQR 116, 414) days (P = 0.02). The cumulative patency did not differ between the two groups (median = 807 (IQR 499, 1308) versus 1059 (IQR 331, 1263) days, P = 0.26).

CONCLUSIONS

This small study suggests that VPS may favourably influence the survival of primary AVF and reduce the need for assisted interventions. However, confirmation with larger randomized controlled trial is warranted.