ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Central venous catheterization is one of the most important interventions for the treatment and monitorization of the critically ill children. In this study; we aim to review the indications; complications and our success rate of central venous catheterization in our hospital.

Material and Methods:

In the present study; the patients who were admitted to Pediatric Intensive Care Unit during the period of January 2008-December 2011 were retrospectively analyzed. The data including age, gender, hospitalization duration, indication for catheterization; the localization of catheterization; duration of catheterization and complications due to catheterization were recorded.

Results:

In this period; 1699 patients were admitted to our intensive care unit and a total of 120 catheters were inserted into 100 patients and success rate was found to be 95,2 %. The most preferred site for catheterization was subclavian vein (88%); followed by femoral (8%) and jugular vein (%4). Four events of complications associated with catheterization was observed (3,3%) (2 pneumothorax; 2 artery injury). No catheter related thrombosis nor insertion related infections were observed while; catheter related blood stream infections were found to be 4,6 catheter days per 1000 catheterization days. Infection rate was found to increase with increased duration of catheterization and hospitalization (p<0,01; p=0,003).

Conclusion:

Central venous catheterization in pediatric intensive care unit is a safe and uncomplicated procedure in experienced hands. However strategies for decreasing infection related complications should be developed in every intensive care units.