Catheter-related internal jugular vein thrombosis in neonates and long-term consequences

The incidence of central venous catheter-related thrombosis and the long-term effects of thrombosis on catheterized veins in neonates is unknown. We therefore determined the incidence of central venous thrombosis, identified associated risk factors, and evaluated outcomes at 6 months.

We enrolled neonates aged less than 28 days scheduled for major intestinal or cardiac surgery whom we expected to require central venous catheters for at least 48 hours. Catheter size, insertion method, and puncture site were determined by the attending anesthesiologist. The duration of catheterization was also determined by clinical need. Central venous thrombi were diagnosed by color Doppler ultrasound imaging within 48 hours after catheter removal; results were not shared with clinicians. Ultrasound examinations were repeated 1, 3, and 6 months after discharge.

We enrolled 188 neonates over 2 years. The median duration of catheter insertion was 12 days. 128 (68%) of the neonates had central venous thrombi at the catheter site, all of which were asymptomatic. Among patients with thrombi, 29 (23%) had complete vessel occlusion and 5 (4%) had venous stenosis at 6 months after discharge. Thrombi therefore spontaneously resolved by 6 months in 73% of the neonates. CVC/vein diameter ratio, duration of catheterization, and catheter dysfunction were independent risk factors for vessel thrombus. Complete vessel occlusion was most common in patients whose thrombus occupied more than 58% of the vessel at the initial assessment.

Covert central venous thrombosis is frequent in neonates who have central venous catheters, and complications are most common in patients who have large intravascular thrombi. Neonates with large intravascular thrombi should be followed, and considered for anticoagulation.