[Early and late complications after implantation of central venous catheters].

The use of implantable central venous catheters by the puncture-technique of Nagy is a safe method performed by trained surgeons. Due to the high mobility and then reduction of painful blood samples this method contributes favourably to the improvement of the quality of life of children with chronic diseases. The analysis of 140 catheters implanted in the Department of Pediatric Surgery of the University of Leipzig between 1995 and 2000 showed 11 cases with early complications. As the most frequent late complications were infection and thrombosis in 51 children. Neutropenia is a particular risk factor during polychemotherapy of malignant tumors. Staphylococcus epidermidis was the most frequently isolated bacillus. Catheter associated infections are only partly treatable by antibiotic therapy. In 29 of 44 cases the explantation of the catheter was necessary. Only a strict hygienic regimen would minimize the risk of infection