Journal of pediatric orthopedics. Part B
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Pediatric patients undergoing surgery for spinal deformity may benefit from central venous access to provide intraoperative monitoring and fluid resuscitation. For pediatric surgical patients requiring central access, we hypothesized that placing a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line preoperatively should decrease time from induction of anesthesia to incision and result in improved patient safety and decreased operating room charges. This was a retrospective, nonrandomized, and case comparison study. ⋯ For this mean time difference of 28 min, the estimated cost savings would be $4710 per patient. When planning central vascular access for a pediatric spine patient, placing central access the day before surgery can decrease the time from induction to incision, therefore decreasing time under general anesthesia, potentially improving patient safety, and overall value. Prospective research into the use of PICC lines in pediatric spinal fusion surgery is planned.