Experience with percutaneous indwelling peripheral arterial catheterization in neonates

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Medicine
• Pediatric Surgery
• Vascular Access

Background:

• Umbilical arterial catheterization is a common but invasive procedure in neonates.
• Peripheral arterial catheterization presents an alternative for hemodynamic monitoring.
• Limited data exists on the safety and efficacy of peripheral arterial catheters in neonates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and reliability of indwelling peripheral arterial catheters in preterm and term neonates.
• To describe the technique and outcomes of peripheral arterial catheterization.
• To compare peripheral arterial catheterization with umbilical arterial catheterization.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 158 peripheral arterial line insertions in 115 neonates over 12 months.
• Detailed description of the insertion technique for radial, posterior tibial, and temporal arteries.
• Analysis of complication rates, including infections and premature removal.

Main Results:

• 158 peripheral arterial lines were inserted in 115 neonates.
• Radial arteries were the most common site (69.6%).
• Major complications occurred in only 1.27% of cases (two infections).

Conclusions:

• Peripheral arterial catheterization is a safe and reliable technique in neonates.
• It offers a viable alternative to umbilical arterial catheterization with minimal complications.
• Appropriate precautions ensure successful implementation of this vascular access method.