Background: Catheterization of central vessels can be associated with early and late, potentially fatal complications. A proactive approach is imperative to reduce the frequency and magnitude of adverse events. Recently, the GAVeCeLT has proposed a protocol called SICA-PED (i.e. Safe Insertion of Central Access in Pediatric patients) and includes seven evidence-based strategies.
Methods: Through a single-center prospective observational study, the authors wanted to consolidate the efficacy and safety of these protocol in newborns. In a series of 104 newborns, the seven steps of the protocol were applied (1) pre-procedural ultrasound study of the RaCeVA veins, (2) correct aseptic technique, (3) ultrasound-guided venipuncture, (4) intraprocedural localization of the tip of the catheter with TTE (ECHO TIP) and (iECG) intracavitary electrocardiogram, (5) reasoned choice of the implant exit site with the RAVESTO Tunneling technique, (6) anchoring without stitches, and (7) exit point protection with the use of glue and transparent semipermeable membrane. The authors have included a further precaution in point (6) the subcutaneous anchoring system has added the counter-fixation of the catheter wings that we will call 6Plus Point.
Results: All infants requiring implantation of elective us-guided central venous access were enrolled in the study. None of the 104 implanted central venous catheters experienced early complications (accidental arterial puncture, PNX, primary malposition); rare late complications such as ecchymosis, CRBSI, exit site infection or dislodgement were observed, No catheter- related thrombotic phenomena were observed. The CRBSI catheter-related infection rate was 2.47 × 1000 days catheter cases.
Conclusion: The results of this prospective study strengthen the feasibility and efficacy of the SICA-Ped Protocol. Demonstrating that the systematic application of the evidence-based seven- step implantation strategy increases the success rate, minimizes early and late complications, which result in increased patient safety

The use of ultrasound is advantageous in many respects: pre-procedural vein selection, real-time venipuncture, tip navigation (to verify guidewire or catheter progression) and post-procedural tip location, detection of early (hematoma, pneumothorax, hemothorax) and late complications (cardiac tamponade, fibroblastic sleeve, thrombosis).Such assessment is best performed using a systematic and standardized approach, as the Rapid Central Vein Assessment, described in this study for neonates too.

The SIP protocol update

Dieci anni di esperienza con la colla in cianoacrilato

The SIF protocol

The SIC protocol