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.