Cuffed-tunneled hemodialysis catheter survival and complications in pediatric patients: a single-center data analysis in China.

This study aims to evaluate the outcome and complications of cuffed-tunneled catheters in pediatric patients. Between January 2010 and December 2013, 16 pediatric patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) were included. 21 cuffed-tunneled hemodialysis catheters were inserted in patients for long-term hemodialysis access. No serious complications were observed in all patients receiving catheter insertion operation, except one with hemopneumothorax. Median survival time was 413.5 days, with rate being 67.5% in the first year, 51.5% in the second year and 43.6% in the third year. Among attempted catheter insertions, 21 (100%) achieved successful vascular access with 13 (61.9%) being remained for the required period and 8 (38.1%) being removed due to death, intractable blood or tunnel infections, catheter thrombosis or malposition. The overall rate of catheter-related infections, thrombosis and malposition was 7.3, 23.4 and 3.4 episodes/1000 catheter days, respectively. Cuffed-tunneled hemodialysis catheters could be effectively used for maintenance of hemodialysis vascular access for pediatric patients with ESRD. Various surveillance measures should be taken to ensure cuffed-tunneled catheters' long-term patency.