PEDIATRICS Vol. 44 No. 6 December 1969, pp. 1028-1030
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Complications of Umbilical Vessel Catheterization: Peritoneal Perforation

G. Van Leeuwen M.D.1 and M. Patney M.D.1

1 Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska, Medical Center, 42nd and Dewey Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68105

Umbilical artery catheterization has been performed for approximately 6 years for diagnostic and investigative studies, and more recently for intravascular fluid therapy. We recently encountered a complication—perforation of the peritoneum—which illustrates another potential danger of this procedure.

CASE REPORT Baby Y., a 1,590 gm female infant, was delivered in a community hospital. She was delivered with membranes intact but aspirated amniotic fluid containing meconium when the membranes were removed.

At 20 minutes of age examination revealed marked intercostal retractions, a respiratory rate of 60 per minute, and cyanosis. Roentgenograms of the chest showed a fine reticular pattern. An umbilical vein catheter was inserted, but blood could not be aspirated.