PICC line placement in neonates – Importance of lateral view radiograph

Abstract

Percutaneously inserted central catheters (PICCs) are commonly used in critically ill newborns. A number of complications are associated with migration of the catheter tip into collateral vessels or perforating the central vein. The tip position of PICC line must always be confirmed after insertion. Single, anterio-posterior view radiograph, which is the most commonly used method to confirm the catheter position, may not be adequate all the time. Here we are reporting a case of a neonate who developed a superficial abdominal wall collection following extravasation through the PICC line inserted in left lower limb. The abnormal position of line was confirmed with a lateral view radiograph.

Keywords

• picc line
• neonate
• abscess
• lateral view