Intestinal failure necessitates the insertion and maintenance of a long-term central venous catheter to provide fluids and/or nutrition. Complications connected with this access contribute significantly to morbidity and death, while loss of access is becoming an increasingly prevalent reason for referral for intestinal transplantation. Care for central lines has improved as more emphasis has been placed on the prevention of central line-associated bloodstream infections and new technologies have developed; however, because care has evolved independently in local centres, care for central venous access varies significantly in this vulnerable population.
The current position paper from the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) Intestinal Failure Special Interest Group examines current data and makes recommendations for central line treatment in children with intestinal failure.
