Phenomenal role of nitroglycerin in the treatment of neonatal digital gangrene

• Main Authors: Rahul Choudhary, Susil Choudhary, Garima Sachdeva, Arti Maria
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications 2021-01-01
• Series: Indian Journal of Paediatric Dermatology
• Subjects: blackish discoloration; gangrene; intensive care unit; ischemia; neonates; nitroglycerin
• Online Access: http://www.ijpd.in/article.asp?issn=2319-7250;year=2021;volume=22;issue=2;spage=162;epage=164;aulast=Choudhary

Placement of peripheral venous catheter is a common requirement for neonates requiring intensive care unit admissions. This simple procedure can sometimes lead to catastrophic complications such as peripheral tissue ischemia/gangrene. This is particularly common in preterm neonates. Effective treatment is very important to prevent long-term sequelae or need for amputation. Nitroglycerin (NTG) is a potent smooth muscle relaxant and improves vascular flow. Here, we report a case of neonatal digital gangrene which was successfully treated with topical NTG with no adverse outcome.