Real-time ultrasound to assess the umbilical catheter position in neonates: a randomized, controlled trial

Abstract Objective To compare real-time ultrasound (RT-US) use as an adjunct tool to verify umbilical catheter placement versus standard care without ultrasound. Study design Neonates requiring umbilical venous catheter (UVC) and umbilical artery catheter (UAC) placement were randomized into the standard formula (No-US) and the RT-US groups. X-rays were used to confirm the catheter position. Result Fifty and forty-nine neonates were in the RT-US and No-US groups, respectively. RT- US showed a significantly higher rate of initial X-ray-confirmed proper catheter position than No-US ( p < 0.001). The rates of proper positions of UVCs and UACs were significantly higher in the RT-US group than in the No-US group (both p < 0.001). Neonates in the RT-US group required fewer catheter adjustments and subsequent X-rays than those in the No-US group. Conclusion RT-US enhances the accuracy of UVC and UAC placement, reduces catheter adjustments, and the number of X-rays required. Trial registration TCTR20190622001