Eligible for inclusion were randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy of prophylaxis against thrombosis in patients aged up to 18 years, with any type of central venous catheter. The outcome of interest was the incidence of deep venous thrombosis related to the central venous catheter (defined in the paper) during the study period.
In the included trials, the types of prophylaxis were heparin-bonded catheters, unfractionated heparin, low molecular weight heparin, warfarin, antithrombin concentrate, and nitroglycerin. Control groups received standard care or placebo. Just under half of the trials were multicentre.
Two reviewers independently selected trials for inclusion in the review; any discrepancies were resolved with a third reviewer.