Distal Tibia Epiphysiodesis After Saphenous Vein Catheterization During Treatment for Prematurity

Area of Science:

• Neonatal intensive care
• Pediatric surgery
• Vascular access complications

Background:

• Extravasation injuries are common in neonates, particularly extremely preterm infants in NICU.
• These injuries can lead to serious complications like tissue necrosis, compartment syndrome, and limb amputation.

Observation:

• This case report details a rare instance of physeal arrest of the distal tibia in a preterm infant.
• The complication was identified years after NICU treatment.

Findings:

• Physeal arrest, a disruption of bone growth at the growth plate, is a potential long-term sequela of neonatal extravasation.
• The exact mechanisms linking extravasation to physeal arrest require further investigation.

Implications:

• Understanding long-term complications of neonatal extravasation is crucial for comprehensive patient care.
• This case underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring and appropriate management of extravasation injuries in preterm neonates.