Development of venous thrombi in a pediatric population of intestinal failure

Abstract 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