AIMS: Central venous access devices (CVADs) are often used to provide reliable venous access for factor VIII administration in children with haemophilia. This study investigates their long-term outcome. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of 44 CVADs inserted into 31 children with haemophilia at a single centre between 1991 and 2006. RESULTS: Eight (18%) CVADs are still in place and working well. Fourteen (31.8%) were removed when the child was able to return to peripheral vascular access. Twenty-two (50%) were removed because of complications, most of these children needing a replacement CVAD. The median duration that the first CVAD was in place was 51 months. There were no life-threatening complications. CONCLUSIONS: CVADs function well in children with haemophilia for a long time, with a relatively low complication rate, and can tide a child over a difficult period for vascular access.
AIMS: Central venous access devices (CVADs) are often used to provide reliable venous access for factor VIII administration in children with haemophilia. This study investigates their long-term outcome. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of 44 CVADs inserted into 31 children with haemophilia at a single centre between 1991 and 2006. RESULTS: Eight (18%) CVADs are still in place and working well. Fourteen (31.8%) were removed when the child was able to return to peripheral vascular access. Twenty-two (50%) were removed because of complications, most of these children needing a replacement CVAD. The median duration that the first CVAD was in place was 51 months. There were no life-threatening complications. CONCLUSIONS: CVADs function well in children with haemophilia for a long time, with a relatively low complication rate, and can tide a child over a difficult period for vascular access.
Authors: B M Ewenstein; L A Valentino; J M Journeycake; M D Tarantino; A D Shapiro; V S Blanchette; W K Hoots; G R Buchanan; M J Manco-Johnson; G-E Rivard; K L Miller; S Geraghty; J A Maahs; R Stuart; T Dunham; R J Navickis Journal: Haemophilia Date: 2004-09 Impact factor: 4.287