COMPLICATIONS OF CATHETERIZATION IN CHILDREN

Abstract

Objectives- The aim of this study was a prospective evaluation to determine the ‎relative risks and complications of pediatric diagnostic and interventional ‎catheterizations‏.‏‎<br />‎ Background- The role of the pediatric catheterization laboratory has evolved in the ‎last decade as a therapeutic modality, although remaining an important tool for ‎anatomic and hemodynamic diagnosis‏.‏‎ <br />‎ Methods- A study of 480 consecutive pediatric catheterization procedures was ‎undertaken prospectively during 6 months, from October 2001 to March 2002‎‏.‏ Results- Patient ages ranged from 4 days to 17 years (mean 4.5 years). Forty six ‎complications occurred (9.58% of all cases) and were classified as major ‎complications in 6 patients, (1.25% of all cases) and minor complications in 40 ‎patients. (8.33% of all cases)Arrhythmia (n=15) and vascular complications (n=10) ‎were the most common adverse events respectively. Death occurred in 2 patients ‎‎(0.41‎‏ ‏‎%).‎ ‎<br />‎ Conclusions- The results are acceptable at our center, but efforts should be directed to ‎improving equipment for flexibility and size and improving techniques for decreasing ‎the mortality and morbidity rates (Iranian Heart Journal 2002, 2003; 3(4)&4(1): 29-‎‎33).‎