This study aims to prospectively compare umbilical venous catheters (UVCs) and peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) in neonates, focusing on complications, catheter survival, and central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates

Inclusion Criteria:

• Neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) requiring central venous access.

  • Infants in whom either an umbilical venous catheter (UVC) or a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) was inserted for clinical indications (Parenteral nutrition, administration of intravenous medications (e.g., antibiotics, inotropes, anticonvulsants, fluids) and blood sampling for frequent labs, especially in critically ill neonates).
  • Catheter insertion performed within the first 28 days of life.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Neonates with major congenital anomalies (e.g.abdominal wall defects) that may interfere with catheter placement or outcomes.
• Insertion site infection
• Infants with severe coagulopathy or bleeding disorders contraindicating central catheter insertion.
• Neonates who received both UVC and PICC simultaneously during the same admission.
• Cases with incomplete clinical records or missing follow-up data.

Neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Assiut University Children's Hospital who require central venous access for parenteral nutrition, intravenous medications, or frequent blood sampling. Participants will include infants receiving either an umbilical venous catheter (UVC) or a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) within the first 28 days of life