Positioning long lines: contrast versus plain radiography
A Reece, T Ubhi, A R Craig, S J Newell
Neonatal Unit, St
James's University Hospital, Leeds LS9 7TF, UK
Correspondence to: Dr Newell newells{at}sjuhnnu.demon.co.uk
Accepted 12 October
2000
AIM
To assess the
value of contrast versus plain radiography in determining radio-opaque
long line tip position in neonates.
METHODSIn a
prospective study, plain radiography was performed after insertion of
radio-opaque long lines. If the line tip was not visible on the plain
film, a second film with contrast was obtained in an attempt to
visualise the tip.
RESULTSSixty eight
lines were inserted during the study period, 62 of which were included
in the study. In 31, a second radiographic examination with contrast
was necessary to determine position of the tip. In 29 of these, the
line tip was clearly visualised with contrast. On two occasions, the
line tip could not be seen because the contrast had filled the vein and
obscured the tip from view. Eight of the lines that required a second
radiograph with contrast were repositioned.
CONCLUSIONIntravenous
contrast should be routinely used in the assessment of long line
position in the neonate.
Keywords: long lines; radiography; contrast; cardiac tamponade
© 2001 by Archives of Disease in Childhood
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