Reinsertion of accidentally removed tunneled central venous catheter via the existing subcutaneous tract

Abstract

Background. A technique for reinsertion of an inadvertently removed tunneled central venous catheter is presented. A 6-year-old boy with short-gut syndrome caused by necrotizing enterocolitis accidentally removed his tunneled central venous catheter.

Materials and methods. The existing subcutaneous catheter tract was recanalized using a hydrophilic guidewire and 5-French end-hole catheter with the child unter conscious sedation, and a new catheter was placed over a guidewire.

Results. This obviated the need for a new venipuncture and creation of a new subcutaneous tunnel, which are performed under general anesthesia in our hospital.