Incorrect umbilical vein catheterization is associated with severe periventricular hemorrhages and mortality in extremely premature newborns

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between umbilical vein catheter (UVC) placement and death in extremely premature newborns (<29 weeks gestation). STUDY DESIGN: Utilizing a retrospective, case-control study design, results for newborns that received UVC placements and died were compared with those who received UVC placements and survived (n = 719) by univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses. RESULT: Death rate was 30% in infants with low lines versus 16% in those without (p = 0.012). High UVC tip placement significantly and independently increased severe periventricular hemorrhages (p = 0.014). Severe periventricular hemorrhage increased death rates by 3-fold independent of gestational age (p < 0.001). Proper line placement significantly reduced severe periventricular hemorrhage by 2.5-fold independent of gestational age (p = 0.019). CONCLUSION: In extremely premature newborns, incorrect UVC placement is significantly associated with death through its relation to severe periventricular hemorrhage.