ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE@#To study the clinical features of pericardial effusion caused by central venous catheterization in preterm infants.@*METHODS@#A retrospective analysis was performed on 11 preterm infants with pericardial effusion caused by central venous catheterization. Their catheterization features, manifestations, treatment, and prognosis were analyzed.@*RESULTS@#A total of 11 preterm infants (11/2 599, 0.42%) developed pericardial effusion, with a mean gestational age of (30.1±2.6) weeks and a mean birth weight of (1 240±234) g. Pericardial effusion mostly occurred within 4 days after central venous catheterization (10 cases, 91%). The main manifestations included poor response (6/11, 55%), cyanosis (5/11, 45%), increased respiratory rate (6/11, 55%), increased heart rate (6/11, 55%), aggravated dyspnea (5/11, 45%), and muffled heart sound (5/11, 45%). At the time of disease progression, 7 preterm infants (64%) had a deep position of the end of the catheter, 3 preterm infants (27%) had a correct position, and 1 preterm infant (9%) had a shallow position. Five preterm infants (45%) experienced cardiac tamponade, among whom 4 underwent pericardiocentesis. Seven preterm infants were given conservative medical treatment. Among the 11 children, 2 (18%) died and 9 (82%) improved.@*CONCLUSIONS@#Pericardial effusion caused by central venous catheterization mostly occurs in the early stage of catheterization and has critical clinical manifestations. Pericardiocentesis is required for cardiac tamponade, and early diagnosis and intervention can effectively improve prognosis.