Retrieval of an umbilical artery catheter: a potential for misadventure.

We have described an infant in whom migration of a transected umbilical artery catheter resulted in sudden vascular ischemia of an extremity. Early operative retrieval was successful, but long-term effects of this complication were encountered. We have outlined an approach to the initial management of the complication. In addition, this case demonstrates the need for careful follow-up for identification and treatment of the long-term sequelae in the involved extremity.