Line, tube, catheter and drain complications in the paediatric patient

Abstract

KEY LEARNING OBJECTIVES: To review the radiographic appearances of common complications arising from the insertion of chest drains, lines, endotracheal and nasogastric tubes in routine radiological practice in the paediatric patient. DESCRIPTION: Chest drains, central venous catheters, umbilical catheters, arterial lines, endotracheal and nasogastric tubes may all be used in paediatric patients under a wide range of common elective and emergency circumstances. The devices can vary from those inserted in adult patients due to patient size, tolerance and anatomical differences. Different sites of access may also be used for central venous catheters and arterial lines. As such, the potential complications following insertion of these devices, and the radiographic appearances of the devices and their complications can differ substantially from their adult equivalents. We will review the radiographic appearances of these complications in different imaging modalities, but with particular emphasis on plain radiography, which is the most common modality used to review the position of these devices post-insertion. CONCLUSION: The radiographic appearances of complications following the insertion of lines, tubes, catheters and drains in the paediatric patient can differ substantially from those seen in adult patient populations. This review of these appearances may facilitate early recognition of such complications and thus aims to be of educational benefit to all those involved in the care of paediatric patients.