Optimal positioning of central venous catheters using intracavitary electrocardiogram: A narrative review

Abstract

Central venous catheters (CVCs), either inserted centrally or peripherally (PICCs), are an essential therapeutic assist tool within and beyond critical care. The correct position of the tip of the CVC is important as suboptimal positioning may lead to complications. Chest X-ray remains the mainstay for tip position confirmation for the vast majority of CVCs. Intracavitary electrocardiogram (IC-ECG) is a validated method that can be utilized for this purpose. It is an accurate, easy-to-use, safer technique without radiation exposure. Its routine adoption in clinical practice is not universal. This narrative review discusses the techniques used for IC-ECG and their clinical implications.