Neonatal aortic thrombosis: complication of umbilical artery cannulation.

Thrombotic occlusion of the abdominal aorta secondary to umbilical artery cannulation in two critically ill neonates with severe ischemia is presented. Emergency surgical treatment by abdominal aortotomy and thrombectomy resulted in survival of both patients. Details of the operative technique are reviewed. Etiologic factors predisposing to this disastrous complication are discussed. Recommendations for prevention and a logical approach to diagnosis and management are outlined.