Neonatal gangrene of the extremity: a complication of umbilical catheterization

ABSTRACT

We report a case of severe tissue ischemia after umbilical catheterization in a preterm newborn. Umbilical catheters can accidentally enter branches of the iliac artery during attempted placement in the umbilical vein. If these misplacements are not recognized by radiology and promptly corrected, arterial obstruction may lead to ischemia and infarction of the extremities. This is the first report of below-knee gangrene due to peripheral vasospasm or thrombosis occurring after umbilical vein catheterization [UVC]. We discuss that the radiographic verification is essential before infusing medications