Am J Perinatol 2006; 23(6): 341-344
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-946721
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Diffuse and Severe Ischemic Injury of the Extremities: A Complication of Umbilical Vein Catheterization

Gina Ancora1 , S. Soffritti1 , G. Faldella1
  • 1Institute of Neonatology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
13 July 2006 (online)

ABSTRACT

We report a case of severe, peripheral, and diffuse tissue ischemia after umbilical vein catheterization (UVC) in a preterm newborn born to a preeclamptic mother. Nitroglycerin ointment was used to treat lesions. The recovery was good but partial loss of the distal phalange of one finger and one toe occurred. This is the first report of peripheral vasospasm occurring after UVC. Topical nitroglycerin, traditionally used to treat peripheral artery catheter-induced ischemic injury, may be useful to treat the same lesions occurring after UVC.

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Gina AncoraM.D. 

Via Massarenti

11, 40138 Bologna, Italy

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