Perforation of the peritoneum and intra-abdominal hemorrhage: a complication of umbilical vein catheterizations
W. P. Kanto Jr and R. A. Parrish Jr
We report a major hemorrhage into the peritoneal cavity caused by
perforation of the umbilical vein by a venous catheter in a critically ill
neonate. A lateral roentgenogram was necessary to confirm the position of
the umbilical vein catheter and the peritoneal perforation. Conservative
management, including replacement of lost volume and correction of
coagulation abnormalities, controlled the hemorrhage, and surgical
intervention was not necessary.
