USE OF DUAL-LUMEN UMBILICAL VENOUS CATHET ERS IN NEONATES

Single-lumen umbilical venous catheters are widely used in pediatric i ntensive care units to administer solutes and drugs and to collect blo od samples. Multiple venous lines are often required either because of a need for continuous infusion of drugs (e.g., vasoactive agents) or because of drug-drug incompatibilities. This problem can theoretically be overcome by using a double-lumen umbilical catheter. A study was c onducted to evaluate the ease of insertion and safety of a percutaneou s dual-lumen catheter (3.5 CHx38 cm ARROW) versus a single-lumen umbil ical catheter (4Frx13 cm SHERWOOD). Twenty neonates whose clinical con dition required a central venous line were included and randomized to the single-lumen (n = 10, group I) or dual-lumen (n = 10, group II) ca theter. No statistically significant differences in gestational age, b irth weight, or catheter use duration were seen between the two groups , Insertion was difficult in two group I and six group II infants. Per ipheral venipuncture for blood sample collection was required in two g roup I infants and in one group II infant. No nosocomial infections we re recorded. Percutaneous dual-lumen venous umbilical catheters are us eful and safe. They theoretically reduce the need for inserting other catheters and for performing peripheral venipuncture for blood sample collection, thus improving patient comfort and saving caregiver time. They are not associated with increased risks of mechanical or infectio us complications. However, they are sometimes difficult to insert.