Comparing Short-Term Effects of Umbilical Artery Catheter (UAC) Tip Position in Neonates: A Randomized Control Trial

Introduction: The latest Cochrane review supported high-position umbilical artery catheters (UAC) as it led to fewer complications and reduced the need for replacement or re-insertion of catheters. However, studies included were dated more than three decades ago. Objectives: To determine safety (short-term complications) UAC in newborn at two different positions. Methods: A randomized control trial was performed from March 2012 August 2013, among newborns requiring insertion Neonatal Intensive Care, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia. Patients randomly assigned either high low positions using block randomization. Outcomes: primary outcomes incidence aortic thrombosis, intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH), necrotising enterocolitis, hypertension, haematuria feeding intolerance. secondary outcome compare short-term position gestational age birth weight. Results: One hundred seventy-eight patients (89 per study arm). mean 34 weeks with a weight 2.31 kg. There no significant differences between groups terms baseline data. overall 20 (23%) 18 (20%) group (p=0.76). observed group: IVH 6.7% vs. 9%, p=0.58; intolerance 4%, p=0.51; hypertension 4% 6%, peripheral ischemic 2% 0%, p=0.25. Conclusion: This showed that rate comparable position.