Umbilical Vein Catheterization - When Complications Occur A Case Report

Although umbilical venous catheterization is a routine procedure in premature newborns, it is associated with various, potentially life threatening, complications. We present a case of a premature baby diagnosed with a hepatic parenchymal liquid collection as a complication of umbilical vein catheterization in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The child was born in the 25th gestational week (GW) and was doing well until the 12th day of life when his general condition deteriorated. He appeared anxious and his oxygen saturation (SaO(2)) decreased. There was slight abdominal distension and tenderness over the abdominal wall, with weak bowel movements, and a palpable liver. Abdominal ultrasound (US) showed an enlarged liver with a well-defined hypoechoic area, with inhomogeneous echogenicity. Such findings were suggestive of fluid extravasation to the liver through a malpositioned umbilical venous catheter. The umbilical catheter was withdrawn, antimicrobial treatment initiated, and eventual complete regression of the collection was seen eleven days after extravasation. Rapid, unexplained clinical deterioration of a newborn with an umbilical vein catheter should always raise the suspicion of a complication due to catheterization. Such a catheter should be carefully revised and, if there is any doubt, removed. Timely diagnosis and adequate treatment is essential, and potentially life-saving.