Surgical retrieval of transected umbilical vein catheter in an extremely preterm neonate

BMJ Case Rep. 2023 Dec 21;16(12):e257355. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2023-257355.

Abstract

Umbilical catheters are used in the care of critically ill neonates for intravenous treatment. It is generally considered a safe procedure, although complications can occur. Of these, catheter breakage and intravenous migration are rare but potentially life-threatening events. Due to the low frequency of which these events occur, obtaining detailed descriptions of removal techniques can pose a challenge. Here, we describe a case of a broken umbilical vein catheter and the surgical retrieval of the retained fragment. We also present a thorough literature search of cases of broken umbilical catheters and the method by which they were removed.

Keywords: Neonatal health; Paediatric Surgery; Vascular surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Catheterization, Peripheral* / adverse effects
  • Catheterization, Peripheral* / methods
  • Catheters
  • Humans
  • Infant, Extremely Premature
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Umbilical Veins / surgery
  • Vascular Access Devices*