Umbilical vein catheterization in the critical newborn: a review of anatomy and technique.

Why attempt a UVC line when intraosseous access is often available and the literature has demonstrated its ease of placement and effectiveness even in neonates? This article is not intended to suggest giving up IO vascular access if you currently have it in your toolbox. The intent was to discuss an alternative to IO vascular access when it fails--for example, when a tibia is fractured during an IO attempt or is not an option for other reasons. The Fast-Cath UVC is another tool in the advance EMS clinician's arsenal that can be easily learned and utilized. It is an effective option for vascular access in the distressed newborn when other options have failed or are not available.