Percutaneous subclavian venous catheters in premature infants weighing less than 1500 gm

Thirty-two percutaneous subclavian venous catheters were inserted in critically ill, low birthweight (less than 1500 gm) neonates. No complication occurred secondary to insertion. The total number of catheter-patient days was 754 days, with the average duration of a single catheter being 23.5 days. The incidence of primary catheter-related clinical sepsis was 3.1%. The safety and bedside feasibility of the procedure, as well as long catheter duration make it the best option for long-term venous access in this unique group of patients.