Medi Life New Born ICU Paediatric & NICU

Central Line Insertion for Extremely Premature Babies

• The placement of central venous catheters, or central lines, is a critical procedure for providing intravenous access and support in extremely premature infants. These tiny patients often have fragile veins and limited peripheral access, making central lines essential for delivering fluids, medications, parenteral nutrition, and monitoring central venous pressures.
• The insertion of central lines in extremely preterm babies requires specialized techniques and expertise to navigate the small vessel sizes and delicate anatomy. Ultrasound guidance is often used to help identify the appropriate vein, such as the umbilical, femoral, or internal jugular veins. Strict sterile technique is paramount to prevent life-threatening infections.
• Careful monitoring is required during and after the procedure to ensure correct catheter placement and to watch for potential complications like pneumothorax, bleeding, or thrombosis. Central lines require diligent care and maintenance to maximize their use and minimize risks in this vulnerable patient population. Overall, central line placement is a critical intervention that can provide essential vascular access and support for extremely premature infants.