Our results indicate that, while long PICU stay is associated with significant mortality, the long-term HRQOL is normal for the majority of surviving children.

While mortality rates for paediatric oncology patients admitted to a ICU have improved, they are still substantial. Those with a haematological malignancy or admitted with sepsis are most at risk.

SummaryAccidental cannulation of an extradural vein is a troublesome and potentially serious complication of extradural catheter insertion. This study was conducted to assess the influence of posture, catheter size and the injection of saline before catheter insertion, on its occurrence. Eight different techniques were studied based on combinations of these three factors. There was no difference in incidence with respect to posture. The use of 18‐gauge catheters, after injection of 10 ml of 0.9% saline, resulted in a significant (p < 0.01) reduction in the incidence of extradural vein cannulation. This technique is recommended in obstetric patients as a means of avoiding accidental intravenous injection of local analgesic.

No abstract