Acta anaesthesiologica Scandinavica
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Acta Anaesthesiol Scand · Mar 2013
Review Meta AnalysisPeripherally inserted central catheters in infants and children - indications, techniques, complications and clinical recommendations.
Venous access required both for blood sampling and for the delivery of medicines and nutrition is an integral element in the care of sick infants and children. Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) have been shown to be a valuable alternative to traditional central venous devices in adults and neonates. However, the evidence may not extrapolate directly to older paediatric patients. ⋯ Assisted visualisation, preferably with ultrasound, yields high rates of insertion success. With good catheter care, rates of mechanical, infectious and thrombotic complications are low and compare favourably with those of traditional central venous catheters. Even in the case of occlusion or infection, fibrinolytics and antibiotic locks often allow the catheter to be retained.