Development of venous thrombi in a pediatric population of intestinal failure.

Background/purpose: Although pediatric intestinal failure (IF) is now a survivable diagnosis, children are still at risk for complications. Loss of venous access persists as a leading indication for intestinal transplantation. The goal of this study was to identify risk factors for loss of venous access in a pediatric intestinal failure population on long-term PN.

Methods: We identified all patients who were PN dependent.

Results: Patients that developed venous thrombosis had significantly more lines placed in the first 2 years of life compared to those who did not develop thrombosis. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that diagnosis (NEC and gastroschisis) and parental education were significant predictors of venous thrombosis.

Conclusion: By identifying potential risk factors for thrombus development, interventions can be developed to improve the overall outcome in pediatric IF patients.

Type Of Study: Diagnostic LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.