The use of indwelling radial artery catheters in neonates.

Indwelling radial artery catheterization was performed on 20 infants. In only one patient was it unsuccessful. Mean duration of indwelling catheterization was 44.1 hours. Advantages of this procedure include constant availability of arterial blood gas sampling and blood pressure monitoring. It is a relatively safe procedure offering a low incidence of clinical infection and serious vascular complications. Further experience will delineate its exact role in the care of the acutely ill neonate.