Under pressure – a forgotten complication of umbilical catheter insertion

Insertion of an umbilical catheter is one of the most commonly performed procedures on neonatal intensive care units, however the device is associated with a range of potentially serious complications. This article presents one such case – a complication of umbilical catheter insertion due to a tightened suture applied directly around the catheter. The need to reinforce good practice to reduce the risk of recurrence is discussed.