Comparison of alteplase and heparin in maintaining the patency of paediatric central venous haemodialysis lines: a randomised controlled trial

Strategies to Prevent Hemodialysis Catheter Dysfunction

Millions of patients with kidney failure rely on hemodialysis central venous catheters (CVCs) for their life-sustaining dialysis treatments. CVC dysfunction necessitates removal of up to 20% of CVCs and is an important problem for patients with kidney failure. Thrombosis and fibrin sheath formation are the most common mechanisms of CVC dysfunction beyond the first week after insertion. Factors such as female sex, left-sided CVC placement, and prior CVC dysfunction are associated with a higher risk of dysfunction. Patient-specific factors contribute substantially to variation in the number of CVC dysfunction events. Weekly thrombolytic locks have been shown to improve CVC blood flow rates, prevent infection, and reduce dysfunction requiring removal. However, routine administration may not be cost-effective in hemodialysis units with low infection rates, and targeted use among patients with established CVC dysfunction has not been studied. Concentrated heparin lock ( e.g ., 5000 versus 1000 international unit/ml) has been associated with lower requirements for therapeutic CVC thrombolysis but greater systemic bleeding risks and costs. Citrate 4% was noninferior to standard heparin locks to prevent thrombosis, may cause less bleeding, and is less costly in some countries. Tunneled CVCs with a symmetrical tip have been associated with a lower risk of CVC dysfunction compared with those with a step tip. Multifaceted CVC care interventions can reduce the incidence of dysfunctional CVCs by 33% compared with usual care. Future research to identify patients at high risk of CVC dysfunction will inform individualized vascular access plans, targeted use of preventive strategies, and enrollment criteria for future clinical trials.

Allergic Reaction to Alteplase Dwell in Chronic Automated Red Cell Exchange Patient

Allergic reactions to intravenous, alteplase have been reported, usually in doses utilized for thrombolysis. Alteplase is also widely used for clearance of occluded catheter lumens, but allergic reactions have not been reported for this route of administration. A 14-year-old patient with sickle cell disease presented with an occluded apheresis port. During alteplase dwell for port occlusion, he developed an initial reaction concerning for anaphylaxis prior to automated red cell exchange, resulting in hospitalization. Findings included angioedema to the tongue and lip as well as urticaria on his abdomen and over a previous port scar, which became warm and firm. Of note, the patient also has a history of severe atopy, uncontrolled eczema, asthma, allergic rhinitis, and elevated eosinophils. The patient was referred to allergy and a skin test to alteplase was negative. The patient underwent an alteplase challenge through his catheter where he experienced anaphylaxis. Despite appropriate treatment, he again required inpatient admission. Post reaction serum tryptase level was not elevated. A clear temporal relationship to alteplase exposure and subsequent allergic reaction was documented in this case. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of allergic reaction to intraluminal alteplase used for clearance of an occluded apheresis port. The non-elevated tryptase level suggests a non-IgE mediated reaction. Allergic reaction to alteplase dwell for clearance of occluded lumens can occur and is an entity apheresis providers should be aware of. Additionally, traditional skin testing may not be entirely predictive of safety upon rechallenge.

Addressing challenges in pediatric thrombosis: a comprehensive guideline development

Background

Pediatric thrombosis is a relatively rare but severe condition in the field of pediatrics, with far-reaching consequences. Recent studies have indicated a rising incidence of this disease in children over the years. Additionally, the pharmacological treatment of thrombotic diseases in children faces numerous challenges. Due to significant physiological differences between children and adults, guidelines for the prevention and treatment of thrombotic diseases in adults cannot be directly applied to pediatric patients.

Purpose

A systematic review of the existing evidence-based medical literature should be conducted to propose pharmacological prevention and treatment recommendations for pediatric thrombotic diseases. Developing a comprehensive and practical pharmacotherapy guideline for the prevention and treatment of pediatric thrombotic diseases is essential to enhancing the rational use of medications in managing these conditions in children.

Methods

The guideline development followed the World Health Organization's (WHO) Handbook for Guideline Development. This involves systematically searching and extensively collecting data on common medication issues in the prevention and treatment of pediatric thrombosis nationwide. The Delphi method was used to survey experts and identify the clinical issues to be included. Subsequently, a systematic literature review was conducted to evaluate existing primary studies, systematic reviews, and guidelines or consensus statements from professional organizations. The quality of the evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. The Delphi method was employed again to reach a consensus on the recommendations and evidence levels. This process was culminated in the development of the Guideline for Pharmacological Management of Thrombotic Diseases in Children.

Results

During the guideline development process, a total of 29 clinical issues were collected and evaluated by 78 experts in clinical pharmacy and clinical medicine. Through two rounds of surveys, 13 clinical issues were selected. Under the supervision of two methodologists, 13 clinical pharmacotherapy recommendations were formulated.

Conclusion

By conducting a comprehensive assessment of the feasibility and safety of clinical practices, the guideline provides specific anticoagulant medication recommendations for pediatric healthcare professionals. This will help enhance the prevention and treatment of pediatric thrombosis, promoting more standardized and effective medical practices.

Challenges of long-term vascular access in pediatric hemodialysis: Recommendations for practitioners

Kidney transplantation is the preferred treatment of end-stage renal disease in children. However, time to transplant varies, making a well-functioning long-term vascular access essential for performing hemodialysis efficiently and without disruption until a kidney becomes available. However, establishing long-term vascular access in pediatric patients can present distinct challenges due to this population's unique characteristics, such as smaller body size and lower-diameter blood vessels. There are three main pediatric long-term vascular access options, which include central venous catheters (CVC), arteriovenous fistula (AVF), and arteriovenous graft (AVG). CVC are currently the most widely used modality, although various studies and guidelines recommend AVF or AVG as the preferred option. Although AVF should be used whenever possible, it is crucial that clinicians consider factors such as patient size, physical exam findings, comorbidities, predicted duration of treatment to decide on the most optimal long-term vascular access modality. This article reviews the three long-term vascular access methods in children and the benefits and complications of each.

Vascular access in children requiring maintenance haemodialysis: a consensus document by the European Society for Paediatric Nephrology Dialysis Working Group

BACKGROUND

There are three principle forms of vascular access available for the treatment of children with end stage kidney disease (ESKD) by haemodialysis: tunnelled catheters placed in a central vein (central venous lines, CVLs), arteriovenous fistulas (AVF), and arteriovenous grafts (AVG) using prosthetic or biological material. Compared with the adult literature, there are few studies in children to provide evidence based guidelines for optimal vascular access type or its management and outcomes in children with ESKD.

METHODS

The European Society for Paediatric Nephrology Dialysis Working Group (ESPN Dialysis WG) have developed recommendations for the choice of access type, pre-operative evaluation, monitoring, and prevention and management of complications of different access types in children with ESKD.

RESULTS

For adults with ESKD on haemodialysis, the principle of "Fistula First" has been key to changing the attitude to vascular access for haemodialysis. However, data from multiple observational studies and the International Paediatric Haemodialysis Network registry suggest that CVLs are associated with a significantly higher rate of infections and access dysfunction, and need for access replacement. Despite this, AVFs are used in only ∼25% of children on haemodialysis. It is important to provide the right access for the right patient at the right time in their life-course of renal replacement therapy, with an emphasis on venous preservation at all times. While AVFs may not be suitable in the very young or those with an anticipated short dialysis course before transplantation, many paediatric studies have shown that AVFs are superior to CVLs.

CONCLUSIONS

Here we present clinical practice recommendations for AVFs and CVLs in children with ESKD. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system has been used to develop and GRADE the recommendations. In the absence of high quality evidence, the opinion of experts from the ESPN Dialysis WG is provided, but is clearly GRADE-ed as such and must be carefully considered by the treating physician, and adapted to local expertise and individual patient needs as appropriate.

Tissue plasminogen activator vs heparin for locking central venous catheters between apheresis procedures

BACKGROUND

Central venous catheters (CVCs) for apheresis procedures require regular locking/flushes to maintain adequate flow rates. Literature comparing locking solutions for apheresis, where the time interval between procedures can be longer than for hemodialysis (many days to weeks), is lacking. In this study, catheter malfunction rates using recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) vs heparin for locking CVC between apheresis procedures were compared.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A retrospective review of 93 extracorporeal photopheresis procedures in 10 patients was performed at our institution. About 1000 U/mL heparin or 2 mg rt-PA was used as the locking solution. Heparin locks were changed at least once per week and rt-PA locks could be left in place for up to 4 weeks. Following these locks, inadequate blood flow noted on accessing CVC and/or during the procedure was scored on as: no issues, some issues, or significant issues. Binary logistic regression was used to evaluate for potential statistical difference in outcomes. Cost analysis was also performed.

RESULTS

No statistically significant difference was noted in outcomes between heparin and rt-PA lock (P value = 0.15). Total cost of heparin lock administration ($91-$362.50) was found to be more than rt-PA lock ($76) when more than one flush was needed between procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

For apheresis use, rt-PA and heparin CVC locks seem to have similar outcomes in preventing CVC malfunction. The convenience of not needing any flushes between procedures and overall cost of administering fewer locks favors rt-PA use when the interval between procedures is >7 days.

Spanish Clinical Guidelines on Vascular Access for Haemodialysis

Vascular access for haemodialysis is key in renal patients both due to its associated morbidity and mortality and due to its impact on quality of life. The process, from the creation and maintenance of vascular access to the treatment of its complications, represents a challenge when it comes to decision-making, due to the complexity of the existing disease and the diversity of the specialities involved. With a view to finding a common approach, the Spanish Multidisciplinary Group on Vascular Access (GEMAV), which includes experts from the five scientific societies involved (nephrology [S.E.N.], vascular surgery [SEACV], vascular and interventional radiology [SERAM-SERVEI], infectious diseases [SEIMC] and nephrology nursing [SEDEN]), along with the methodological support of the Cochrane Center, has updated the Guidelines on Vascular Access for Haemodialysis, published in 2005. These guidelines maintain a similar structure, in that they review the evidence without compromising the educational aspects. However, on one hand, they provide an update to methodology development following the guidelines of the GRADE system in order to translate this systematic review of evidence into recommendations that facilitate decision-making in routine clinical practice, and, on the other hand, the guidelines establish quality indicators which make it possible to monitor the quality of healthcare.

Interventions for treating central venous haemodialysis catheter malfunction

BACKGROUND

Adequate haemodialysis (HD) in people with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) is reliant upon establishment of vascular access, which may consist of arteriovenous fistula, arteriovenous graft, or central venous catheters (CVC). Although discouraged due to high rates of infectious and thrombotic complications as well as technical issues that limit their life span, CVC have the significant advantage of being immediately usable and are the only means of vascular access in a significant number of patients. Previous studies have established the role of thrombolytic agents (TLA) in the prevention of catheter malfunction. Systematic review of different thrombolytic agents has also identified their utility in restoration of catheter patency following catheter malfunction. To date the use and efficacy of fibrin sheath stripping and catheter exchange have not been evaluated against thrombolytic agents.

OBJECTIVES

This review aimed to evaluate the benefits and harms of TLA, preparations, doses and administration as well as fibrin-sheath stripping, over-the-wire catheter exchange or any other intervention proposed for management of tunnelled CVC malfunction in patients with ESKD on HD.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Specialised Register up to 17 August 2017 through contact with the Information Specialist using search terms relevant to this review. Studies in the Specialised Register are identified through searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE, conference proceedings, the International Clinical Trials Register (ICTRP) Search Portal, and ClinicalTrials.gov.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included all studies conducted in people with ESKD who rely on tunnelled CVC for either initiation or maintenance of HD access and who require restoration of catheter patency following late-onset catheter malfunction and evaluated the role of TLA, fibrin sheath stripping or over-the-wire catheter exchange to restore catheter function. The primary outcome was be restoration of line patency defined as ≥ 300 mL/min or adequate to complete a HD session or as defined by the study authors. Secondary outcomes included dialysis adequacy and adverse outcomes.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed retrieved studies to determine which studies satisfy the inclusion criteria and carried out data extraction. Included studies were assessed for risk of bias. Summary estimates of effect were obtained using a random-effects model, and results were expressed as risk ratios (RR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) for dichotomous outcomes, and mean difference (MD) and 95% CI for continuous outcomes. Confidence in the evidence was assessed using GRADE.

MAIN RESULTS

Our search strategy identified 8 studies (580 participants) as eligible for inclusion in this review. Interventions included: thrombolytic therapy versus placebo (1 study); low versus high dose thrombolytic therapy (1); alteplase versus urokinase (1); short versus long thrombolytic dwell (1); thrombolytic therapy versus percutaneous fibrin sheath stripping (1); fibrin sheath stripping versus over-the-wire catheter exchange (1); and over-the-wire catheter exchange versus exchange with and without angioplasty sheath disruption (1). No two studies compared the same interventions. Most studies had a high risk of bias due to poor study design, broad inclusion criteria, low patient numbers and industry involvement.Based on low certainty evidence, thrombolytic therapy may restore catheter function when compared to placebo (149 participants: RR 4.05, 95% CI 1.42 to 11.56) but there is no data available to suggest an optimal dose or administration method. The certainty of this evidence is reduced due to the fact that it is based on only a single study with wide confidence limits, high risk of bias and imprecision in the estimates of adverse events (149 participants: RR 2.03, 95% CI 0.38 to 10.73).Based on the available evidence, physical disruption of a fibrin sheath using interventional radiology techniques appears to be equally efficacious as the use of a pharmaceutical thrombolytic agent for the immediate management of dysfunctional catheters (57 participants: RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.80 to 1.07).Catheter patency is poor following use of thrombolytic agents with studies reporting median catheter survival rates of 14 to 42 days and was reported to improve significantly by fibrin sheath stripping or catheter exchange (37 participants: MD -27.70 days, 95% CI -51.00 to -4.40). Catheter exchange was reported to be superior to sheath disruption with respect to catheter survival (30 participants: MD 213.00 days, 95% CI 205.70 to 220.30).There is insufficient evidence to suggest any specific intervention is superior in terms of ensuring either dialysis adequacy or reduced risk of adverse events.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Thrombolysis, fibrin sheath disruption and over-the-wire catheter exchange are effective and appropriate therapies for immediately restoring catheter patency in dysfunctional cuffed and tunnelled HD catheters. On current data there is no evidence to support physical intervention over the use of pharmaceutical agents in the acute setting. Pharmacological interventions appear to have a bridging role and long-term catheter survival may be improved by fibrin sheath disruption and is probably superior following catheter exchange. There is no evidence favouring any of these approaches with respect to dialysis adequacy or risk of adverse events.The current review is limited by the small number of available studies with limited numbers of patients enrolled. Most of the studies included in this review were judged to have a high risk of bias and were potentially influenced by pharmaceutical industry involvement.Further research is required to adequately address the question of the most efficacious and clinically appropriate technique for HD catheter dysfunction.

The Impact of Central Venous Catheters on Pediatric Venous Thromboembolism

The use of central venous catheters (CVCs) in children is escalating, which is likely linked to the increased incidence of pediatric venous thromboembolism (VTE). In order to better understand the specific risk factors associated with CVC-VTE in children, as well as available prevention methods, a literature review was performed. The overall incidence of CVC-VTE was found to range from 0 to 74%, depending on the patient population, CVC type, imaging modality, and study design. Throughout the available literature, there was not a consistent determination regarding whether a particular type of central line (tunneled vs. non-tunneled vs. peripherally inserted vs. implanted), catheter material, insertion technique, or insertion location lead to an increased VTE risk. The patient populations who were found to be most at risk for CVC-VTE were those with cancer, congenital heart disease, gastrointestinal failure, systemic infection, intensive care unit admission, or involved in a trauma. Both mechanical and pharmacological prophylactic techniques have been shown to be successful in preventing VTE in adult patients, but studies in children have yet to be performed or are underpowered. In order to better determine true CVC-VTE risk factors and best preventative techniques, an increase in large, prospective pediatric trials needs to be performed.

Optimization of Dialysis Catheter Function

Central venous catheters (CVCs) are essential in the management of hemodialysis patients, but they also carry unintended negative consequences and in particular thrombosis and infection, adversely affecting patient morbidity and mortality. This review will focus on the etiology, prevention, and management of CVC-related dysfunction, which is mainly associated with inadequate blood flow. CVC dysfunction is a major cause of inadequate depuration. Thrombus, intraluminal and extrinsic, as well as fibrous connective tissue sheath (traditionally indicated as fibrin sheath) formation play a central role in establishing CVC dysfunction. Thrombolysis with urokinase or recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rTPA) can be undertaken in the dialysis unit, restoring adequate blood flow in most patients, preserving the existing catheter, and avoiding an interventional procedure. If thrombolytics fail, mainly because of the presence of fibrous connective tissue sheath, catheter exchange with fibrin sheath disruption may be successful and preserve the venous access site. Prevention of CVC dysfunction is important for containing costly pharmacologic and interventional treatments, which also affect patients’ quality of life. Prevention is based on the use of anticoagulant and/or thrombolytic CVC locks, which are only partially effective. Chronic oral anticoagulation with warfarin has also been proposed, but its use for this indication is controversial and its overall risk-benefit profile has not been clearly established.

Anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents for preventing central venous haemodialysis catheter malfunction in patients with end-stage kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Catheter malfunction, including thrombosis, is associated with reduced dialysis adequacy, as well as an increased risk of catheter-related bacteraemia and mortality. The role of anticoagulants in the prevention of catheter malfunction remains uncertain.

OBJECTIVES

This review aimed to compare the prophylactic effect of different anticoagulant agents, preparations, doses and administration on the incidence of central venous haemodialysis catheter-related malfunction and sepsis in patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD).

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Renal Group's Specialised Register to 7 January 2016 through contact with the Trials' Search Co-ordinator using search terms relevant to this review.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included all randomised controlled trials (RCT) assessing anticoagulants compared with conventional care for the prevention of catheter malfunction in adult patients receiving haemodialysis for ESKD.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

The primary outcome was catheter malfunction defined as a catheter blood flow of 200 mL/min or less, or as defined by study authors. Secondary outcomes were catheter-related bacteraemia, all-cause mortality and bleeding events. Relative risks (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for individual studies were pooled using random effects models within treatment classes. Analyses were conducted by class, with subgroup analyses performed of individual agents within classes.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 27 studies (3003 participants) that were followed up for a median of six months. Study interventions included alternative anticoagulant locking solutions (19 studies, 2216 patients), systemic agents (6 studies, 664 patients) and low or no dose heparin (2 studies, 123 patients). The most common comparison treatment was a locking solution of heparin 5000 IU/mL, used in 17 studies. No significant effect on catheter malfunction was observed for alternative anticoagulant locking solutions (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.26), systemic agents (RR 0.59, 95% CI 0.28 to 1.23), or low or no dose heparin (RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.10 to 8.31). A significant reduction on incidence of catheter-related bacteraemia was observed for alternative anticoagulant locking solutions (RR 0.46, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.66) but not systemic agents (RR 2.41, 95% CI 0.89 to 6.55), and could not be assessed in reports of low or no dose heparin studies. No significant effect on all-cause mortality was observed for alternative anticoagulant locking solutions (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.54 to 1.43) or systemic agents (RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.37 to 1.65), and was not reported in studies of low or no dose heparin. Bleeding events were only reported in eight studies, including only 2/5 studies of systemic warfarin, with no clear effect demonstrated (RR 1.43, 95% CI 0.86 to 2.39). For individual agents, recombinant tissue plasminogen (rt-PA) was the only locking solution shown to reduce catheter malfunction (RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.37 to 0.91) based on the results of a single study. No significant on catheter malfunction was observed for other individual classes of alternative anticoagulant locking solutions (citrate: RR 1.14, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.69; antibiotic: RR 1.48, 95% CI 0.79 to 2.77; ethanol: RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.21 to 3.67). On the other hand, all individual classes of alternative anticoagulant locking solutions, except ethanol, reduced catheter-related bacteraemia (citrate: RR 0.49, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.68; antibiotic: RR 0.27, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.70; rt-PA: RR 0.35, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.93; ethanol: RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.03 to 4.05). No significant effect on all-cause mortality was observed for any individual agent within the class of alternative locking solutions. Studies were mainly of low quality and underpowered with an average participant number of 75 and study duration of six months. The interpretation of the study evidence was further limited by the variation in tested interventions and outcome reporting.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The relative net benefit of anticoagulant therapies for prevention of catheter malfunction remains uncertain. Multiple agents appear to reduce catheter-related bacteraemia although the lack of clear assessment of harms and the limitations of study quality mean these results should be interpreted with caution. Methodological approaches can be used to avoid methods of reporting unduly affecting on the results of meta-analyses incorporating studies employed mixed reporting methods. Further high quality randomised studies, including safety outcomes, are needed.

Domiciliary administration of intravenous albumin in congenital nephrotic syndrome

BACKGROUND

Early management of congenital nephrotic syndrome invariably includes the frequent administration of intravenous human albumin solution. The safety and feasibility of intravenous administration of albumin in the patients' home setting has not previously been reported.

CASE-DIAGNOSIS/TREATMENT

We report a series of seven paediatric patients whose parents were trained in the administration of albumin via a central venous catheter at home, with the aim of minimising hospital admission or attendances. We describe the clinical course of these patients and complication rates ascribed to this strategy.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that home albumin infusion can be performed safely.

Heparin versus 0.9% sodium chloride intermittent flushing for prevention of occlusion in central venous catheters in adults

BACKGROUND

Heparin intermittent flushing is a standard practice in the maintenance of patency in central venous catheters. However, we could find no systematic review examining its effectiveness and safety.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of intermittent flushing with heparin versus 0.9% sodium chloride (normal saline) solution in adults with central venous catheters in terms of prevention of occlusion and overall benefits versus harms.

SEARCH METHODS

The Cochrane Peripheral Vascular Diseases Group Trials Search Co-ordinator searched the Specialised Register (last searched December 2013) and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (2013, Issue 11). Searches were also carried out in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and clinical trials databases (December 2013).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in adults 18 years of age and older with a central venous catheter (CVC) in which intermittent flushing with heparin (any dose with or without other drugs) was compared with 0.9% normal saline were included. No restriction on language was applied.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected trials, assessed trial quality and extracted data. Trial authors were contacted to retrieve additional information, when necessary.

MAIN RESULTS

Six eligible studies with a total of 1433 participants were included. The heparin concentrations used in these studies were very different (10-5000 IU/mL), and follow-up varied from 20 days to 180 days. The overall risk of bias in the studies was low. The quality of the evidence ranged from very low to moderate for the main outcomes (occlusion of CVC, duration of catheter patency, CVC-related sepsis, mortality and haemorrhage at any site).Combined findings from three trials in which the unit of analysis was the catheter suggest that heparin was associated with reduced CVC occlusion rates (risk ratio (RR) 0.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.29 to 0.94). However, no clear evidence of a similar effect was found when the results of two studies in which the unit of analysis was the participant were combined (RR 0.21, 95% CI 0.03 to 1.70), nor when findings were derived from one study, which considered total line accesses (RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.84 to 1.40). Furthermore, results for other estimated effects were found to be imprecise and compatible with benefit and harm: catheter duration in days (mean difference (MD) 0.41, 95% CI -1.29 to 2.12), CVC-related thrombosis (RR 1.22, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.99), CVC-related sepsis (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.34 to 3.03), mortality (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.45 to 1.32) and haemorrhage at any site (RR 1.37, 95% CI 0.49 to 3.85).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

We found no conclusive evidence of important differences when heparin intermittent flushing was compared with 0.9% normal saline flushing for central venous catheter maintenance in terms of efficacy or safety. As heparin is more expensive than normal saline, our findings challenge its continued use in CVC flushing outside the context of clinical trials.

Prevention and treatment of intraluminal catheter thrombosis in children hospitalised in a paediatric intensive care unit

AIM

The aim of the study was to develop and implement a protocol for the prevention and treatment of catheter related intraluminal thrombosis in a paediatric intensive care unit

METHODS

A computerised search was carried out on MEDLINE, through PubMed, using the medical subject heading 'central venous catheter', 'central venous access device', 'central venous line' associated with 'occlusion', 'obstruction', 'catheter-related thrombosis', 'critically ill patients' and 'thrombolytic therapy'. References of reviewed articles were also searched for relevant titles as well as non-randomised controlled trials and series of cases when no information of higher level of evidence was available.

RESULTS

With the information gathered, a protocol for the prevention and treatment of catheter related intraluminal thrombosis was elaborated and those recommendations that best suit our environment were included. They were agreed upon by a broad panel of professionals working in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and the Pharmacy Department.

CONCLUSIONS

Due to the variety of options available for the pharmacotherapeutic management of intraluminal catheter thrombosis, one measure to improve the quality of the therapy and to diminish the variability in the prescription could be the implementation of a protocol as described in this paper.

The effects of ranitidine and hydrocortisone on the complications of femoral artery obstruction treated by streptokinase following cardiac catheterization in pediatric patients with congenital heart diseases

Background:

The most important complication following cardiac catheterization required urgent therapeutic management is vessel obstruction and arterial thrombosis. The morbidity following this complication can be decreased by surgery intervention and/or thrombolytic drugs.

Objectives:

In this study we evaluated the effects of ranitidine and hydrocortisone on pediatric patients with congenital heart diseases who suffered from femoral artery obstruction following cardiac catheterization on decreasing the events after streptokinase administration.

Materials and Methods:

This semi experimental study was conducted on 47 patients among 600 cases who underwent cardiac catheterization from April 2002 to December 2011.The patients suffered from distal vessel obstruction following cardiac catheterization with no response to surgery intervention, were enrolled and divided in two groups. Streptokinase was administrated in both groups. Patients in group 2 (25 cases), received ranitidine and hydrocortisone before streptokinase administration. In group 1 (22 cases), the loading dose of streptokinase was 2000IU/kg/ in 20-30 minutes/ infusion and thereafter streptokinase was administrated 1000 IU /kg/hour. In group 2, the loading dose was 3000IU/kg in 20-30 minutes /infusion and 1500 IU/kg/hour as maintenance dose. The infusion dose of streptokinase was decreased and then terminated in 2-3 hours by the time arterial pulse was detected by pulse oximetry.

Results:

There were 13 (59, 1%) male and 9 (40.9%) female patients in group 1. In group 2, there were 15 (60%) male and 10 (40%) female cases (P = 0.949). Patients in both groups were matched well regarding age, body weight, height and the duration of streptokinase infusion (P < 0.05). The incidence of hematoma was higher in group 1 than group 2 (P = 0.032). the patients of Group 1 required more blood transfusion than group 2 because the incidence of bleeding was more in the first group (P = 0.042). 12 patients in group 1 required fresh frozen plasma transfusion versus 4 patients in group 2 (P = 0.049). Local oozing was detected more in group 1 (P = 0.042). Significant bleeding was occurred in 6 cases in group 1; however this event did not occurrin any patients in group 2 (P = 0.007). Although 4 patients in group 1 suffered from anaphylactic shock after streptokinase administration but no patients in group 2 did. (P = 0.041).

Conclusions:

Based on the results of this study, we concluded that streptokinase was able to remove the vessel thrombosis at the site of cardiac catheterization and ranitidine and hydrocortisone administration before streptokinase may be effective in order to reduce the complications related to thrombolytic drugs; however the experience of the performer is an issue of concern in this matter.

Tissue plasminogen activator versus heparin for locking dialysis catheters: A systematic review

Background and Objectives:

Hemodialysis catheters are commonly used when renal replacement therapy is initiated. These catheters have significant complications. Among “locking” solutions used in an attempt to decrease these complications is recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA). This systematic review is to determine the efficacy of rt-PA versus heparin, the standard of care.

Materials and Methods:

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials studying rt-PA alone or rt-PA plus heparin versus heparin alone as locking agents for hemodialysis catheters, which included patients needed a temporary hemodialysis catheter for hemodialysis. We identified relevant trials through electronic databases and correspondence with experts. Two investigators independently reviewed potentially eligible trials and extracted data.

Results:

Three trials met the inclusion criteria. One trial reported an improved catheter malfunctioning in patients using rt-PA plus heparin to lock catheters (20.0%) versus heparin alone (34.8%). Another trial reported higher blood flow rate in hemodialysis catheters in patients who received rt-PA (231.6 ± 12.4 mL/min) compared with those who received heparin (206.9 mL/min). The third trial reported formation and weight of clots which were decreased by half in rt-PA group versus heparin group.

Conclusions:

In the few randomized trials that met our inclusion criteria, the use of rt-PA as a locking solution for hemodialysis catheters seems to be associated with fewer adverse events and catheter malfunctioning as compared with heparin. Our systematic review is limited by the few randomized trials addressing our question and the wide variety of outcome measures. Further prospective randomized trials are needed to confirm this conclusion.

Vascular access: choice and complications in European paediatric haemodialysis units

BACKGROUND

European and U.S. guidelines emphasise that permanent vascular access in the form of arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) or grafts (AVG) are preferable to central venous catheters (CVC) in paediatric patients on long-term haemodialysis. We report vascular access choice and complication rates in 13 European paediatric nephrology units.

METHODS

A survey of units participating in the European Pediatric Dialysis Working Group requesting data on type of vascular access, routine care and complications in patients on chronic haemodialysis between March 2010 and February 2011.

RESULTS

Information was complied on 111 patients in 13 participating centres with a median age of 14 (range 0.25-20.2) years. Central venous catheters were used in 67 of 111 (60%) patients, with 42 patients (38%) having an AVF and two patients (2%) having an AVG. Choice of vascular access was significantly related to patient age, with patients with AVF/AVG having a median age of 16 years compared to 12 years for patients with CVCs (p < 0.001). Routine CVC exit site care and catheter lock solution use differed between centres. CVC infections requiring intravenous antibiotics were reported at a rate of 1.9 and exit site infections at a rate of 1.8 episodes/1000 catheter days. Overall infective complications necessitating CVC change occurred at a rate of 0.9 episodes/1000 catheter days. No infective complications were reported in patients with AVF/AVG access. The rate of CVC infections requiring intravenous antibiotics was significantly lower in patients in whom CVC exit sites were cleaned weekly as opposed to every dialysis session (relative risk with every session cleaning vs. weekly cleaning 2.58, 95% confidence interval 1.17-5.69). Catheter malfunction (inadequate blood flow) was a more prevalent complication necessitating 22.4 thrombolytic interventions/1000 catheter days and 2.1 CVC changes/1000 catheter days.

CONCLUSIONS

Central venous catheters remain the predominant choice of vascular access in Europe despite problems of malfunction and infection. AVF/AVG were predominantly used in adolescents without reported complications. More regular exit site cleaning may predispose to CVC infection, but this observation requires prospective evaluation.

Antithrombotic therapy in neonates and children: Antithrombotic Therapy and Prevention of Thrombosis, 9th ed: American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines

BACKGROUND

Neonates and children differ from adults in physiology, pharmacologic responses to drugs, epidemiology, and long-term consequences of thrombosis. This guideline addresses optimal strategies for the management of thrombosis in neonates and children.

METHODS

The methods of this guideline follow those described in the Methodology for the Development of Antithrombotic Therapy and Prevention of Thrombosis Guidelines: Antithrombotic Therapy and Prevention of Thrombosis, 9th ed: American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines.

RESULTS

We suggest that where possible, pediatric hematologists with experience in thromboembolism manage pediatric patients with thromboembolism (Grade 2C). When this is not possible, we suggest a combination of a neonatologist/pediatrician and adult hematologist supported by consultation with an experienced pediatric hematologist (Grade 2C). We suggest that therapeutic unfractionated heparin in children is titrated to achieve a target anti-Xa range of 0.35 to 0.7 units/mL or an activated partial thromboplastin time range that correlates to this anti-Xa range or to a protamine titration range of 0.2 to 0.4 units/mL (Grade 2C). For neonates and children receiving either daily or bid therapeutic low-molecular-weight heparin, we suggest that the drug be monitored to a target range of 0.5 to 1.0 units/mL in a sample taken 4 to 6 h after subcutaneous injection or, alternatively, 0.5 to 0.8 units/mL in a sample taken 2 to 6 h after subcutaneous injection (Grade 2C).

CONCLUSIONS

The evidence supporting most recommendations for antithrombotic therapy in neonates and children remains weak. Studies addressing appropriate drug target ranges and monitoring requirements are urgently required in addition to site- and clinical situation-specific thrombosis management strategies.

Minimizing hemodialysis catheter dysfunction: an ounce of prevention

The maintenance of tunneled catheter (TC) patency is critical for the provision of adequate hemodialysis in patients who are TC-dependent. TC dysfunction results in the need for costly and inconvenient interventions, and reduced quality of life. Since the introduction of TCs in the late 1980s, heparin catheter lock has been the standard prophylactic regimen for the prevention of TC dysfunction. More recently, alternative catheter locking agents have emerged, and in some cases have shown to be superior to heparin lock with respect to improving TC patency and reducing TC-associated infections. These include citrate, tissue plasminogen activator, and a novel agent containing sodium citrate, methylene blue, methylparaben, and propylparaben. In addition, prophylaxis using oral anticoagulants/antiplatelet agents, including warfarin, aspirin, ticlodipine, as well as the use of modified heparin-coated catheters have also been studied for the prevention of TC dysfunction with variable results. The use of oral anticoagulants and/or antiplatelet agents as primary or secondary prevention of TC dysfunction must be weighed against their potential adverse effects, and should be individualized for each patient.

The life-threatening hemodialysis catheter heparin lock caused bleeding in a child after peritoneal catheter removal

Hemodialysis catheter patency is regularly maintained by high-concentration heparin filling, according to manufacturer's recommendation. Surprisingly, there are only few reports on serious bleeding complications in children on dialysis. A case of serious, life-threatening hemorrhage in a child after tunneled peritoneal catheter removal because of hemodialysis catheter heparin lock flushing is described. Discussion of the literature data is presented. Further investigations are needed to develop the guidelines for pediatric dialysis catheter care, including the optimal concentration for heparin lock as the possible heparin alternatives, but until that moment, previously suggested guidelines to prevent hemorrhagic complications in dialyzed children should be emphasized.

Should paediatric central lines be aspirated before use?

As blood clots commonly occur in the lumens of paediatric haemodialysis central-venous lines, they must be routinely aspirated before use to prevent pulmonary emboli. The smaller diameter lines used for parenteral nutrition and cancer chemotherapy are seldom managed this way. We looked for clots formed when children undergoing cancer chemotherapy had their heparin-locked central lines accessed, and compared with the lines of children undergoing haemodialysis. Patients undergoing haemodialysis had clots aspirated on 83% of occasions, and each child had clots at least once. Clots also occurred in the smaller lines, but they were less frequent (64%, p = 0.01), and had a lower median weight than those in dialysis lines (14.1 v 25.2 mg, p = 0.01). When small diameter central lines are used without initial aspiration, small pulmonary emboli are likely to occur, but are unlikely to be individually clinically important. Daily use, as with long-term parenteral nutrition, might result in >3 g of clot being embolised annually. Consideration should be given to aspirating all paediatric central lines before use.