Pediatrics
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Review Meta Analysis
Ethanol locks to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infections in parenteral nutrition: a meta-analysis.
Patients with pediatric intestinal failure (IF) depend on parenteral nutrition for growth and survival, but are at risk for complications, such as catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs). CRBSI prevention is crucial, as sepsis is an important cause of IF-associated liver disease and mortality. We aim to estimate the pooled effectiveness and safety of ethanol locks (ELs) in comparison with heparin locks (HLs) with regard to CRBSI rate and catheter replacements for pediatric IF patients with chronic parenteral nutrition dependence. ⋯ In pediatric patients with IF, EL is a more effective alternative to HL. Adverse events include thrombotic events.