Perforation of the peritoneum and intra-abdominal hemorrhage: a complication of umbilical vein catheterizations.

We report a major hemorrhage into the peritoneal cavity caused by perforation of the umbilical vein by a venous catheter in a critically ill neonate. A lateral roentgenogram was necessary to confirm the position of the umbilical vein catheter and the peritoneal perforation. Conservative management, including replacement of lost volume and correction of coagulation abnormalities, controlled the hemorrhage, and surgical intervention was not necessary.