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Sterile hepatic abscess due to umbilical venous catheterization
Cihangül Bayhan1, Şahin Takcı, Türkmen Turan Ciftçi
1Department of Pediatrics, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey. cihangulsutbas@gmail.com.
The Turkish Journal of Pediatrics
|May 23, 2013
Summary
Umbilical venous catheters (UVCs) can cause serious complications like hepatic abscess and hemorrhage, even after initial correct placement. Careful monitoring for UVC-related issues is crucial in preterm infants.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Intensive Care
- Pediatric Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Preterm infants often require umbilical venous catheters (UVCs) for treatment.
- Isolated fetal ascites and respiratory distress are critical conditions in neonates.
Observation:
- A preterm infant with fetal ascites and respiratory distress received a UVC.
- Initial ultrasonography (US) revealed malposition in the portal vein; corrected and confirmed by X-ray.
- Sudden deterioration on day six led to US revealing hepatic abscess and intraabdominal hemorrhage.
Findings:
- Malpositioned UVCs can lead to severe complications, including hepatic abscess and hemorrhage.
- Complications may arise even after initial correct placement and confirmation.
- Ultrasound is a valuable tool for diagnosing UVC-related complications.
Implications:
- Neonatal care practitioners must maintain vigilance for UVC complications, irrespective of initial placement verification.
- Consider US for confirming UVC tip location, especially when uncertain.
- Prompt diagnosis and intervention, such as drainage and paracentesis, are vital for managing UVC complications.
