Neonatal vascular catheters and their complications

Vascular catheters are critical in the care of the sick neonate. Sites of a ccess, types of lines, indications for use, and complications may be differ ent in both arterial and venous catheters. The standard indications, placem ents, and uses of these lines are changing, and the radiologist must be fam iliar with the newer lines and techniques available. In addition, radiologi sts are increasingly performing vascular catheter placement in the neonate. Understanding the potential complications may decrease their incidence and lead to quicker recognition when they occur.