Hickman catheter embolism in a child during stem cell transplantation

J Coll Physicians Surg Pak. 2003 Mar;13(3):168-9.

Abstract

The majority of stem cell recipients rely on indwelling central venous catheters situated in superior vena cava or right atrium. Semi-permanent tunneled silicone rubber Hickman catheters are widely used to provide durable central venous access for patients undergoing stem cell transplantation. A case of 5 years old child with diagnosis of severe aplastic anemia is reported. The patient received peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC) and had successful engraftment with complete hematological recovery. He had Hickman catheter embolism in the pulmonary circulation following unsuccessful attempt to remove the line. The catheter was successfully removed by midsternostomy operation. The child is normal with sustained remission on day +218 post stem cell transplant.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anemia, Aplastic / diagnosis
  • Anemia, Aplastic / therapy*
  • Catheterization, Central Venous / adverse effects*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Device Removal
  • Equipment Failure
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Risk Assessment
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Thrombectomy / methods
  • Thromboembolism / etiology*
  • Thromboembolism / surgery
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vena Cava, Superior*