Vascular access.

In a retrospective survey of vascular access by means of central venous catheters, those inserted via a tunnel lasted four times longer than those inserted directly into a vein. The latter were four times more likely to become infected. The general health of patients receiving chemotherapy resulted in frequent episodes of sepsis and one-third of all catheters were removed because of presumed infection. There were no complications relating to insertion, which was by direct exposure of a central vein, preferably the right internal jugular. Long-term atrial catheters were not associated with major venous thrombosis or cardiac complications. Safe vascular access is an important contribution to the management of children with malignant disease, notwithstanding the high infection rate. A specially trained nurse, working closely with experienced play leaders and social workers, minimises the technical and psychological problems associated with long-term central venous catheters.