Totally implanted vascular access devices: A retrospective study of indications and complications in a single pediatric institute

Abstract

Background and Objective: Recently totally implanted vascular access devices (TIVADs) have played an essential role in the management of pediatric patients. The purpose of this study was to describe the indications, techniques and complications of the procedures. Design and Setting: A retrospective study of all patients′ files underwent TIVADs procedures between 2009-2012, in a single service providing institute in Saudi Arabia (King Saud Medical city-Riyadh). Patients and Methods: Fifty four TIVADs were inserted in fifty one patients (thirty males and twenty one females). Age ranged six months and twelve years (average 5.6 years). All TIVADs were implanted by pediatric consultant surgeons under general anesthesia. Seldinger technique used in fifty procedures and open approach in four patients. Results: The main indications for TIVADs use were acute lymphocytic leukemia forty six (90%), congenital nephrotic syndrum two (4%), hemophilia two (4%) and solid tumor one (2%). TIVADs were in situe for a total of 35222 days (average 652 days/catheter). Over all complications rate was (30%). Conclusion: TIVADs provided a simple almost pain free venous system access, allow children to conduct a normal life style and sport activities. We believe this study is one of very few reviews originating from developing countries with results comparable to those of world literature.

Keywords

• Children
• complications
• implanted vascular device
• portacath