Parenteral Nutrition Ascites: Calamity from an Umbilical Vein Cannula

Abstract

Umbilical vein catheterization is considered a critical requirement in preterm neonates for the administration of fluids and parenteral nutrition. However, inadvertent migration and malposition are known to cause complications that are often life-threatening. We describe a neonate with parenteral nutrition-associated lipid ascites owing to extravasation from an umbilical vein cannula. Fatality was averted due to prompt recognition and paracentesis that was therapeutic and confirmed the diagnosis as well.