Central Venous Catbeterization: A Comprehensive Review, Part II

Abstract

In Part I of this article, the indications and contraindica tions of central venous catheterization were reviewed, and the antecubital, external jugular, and femoral vein routes discussed. In Part II, the internal jugular and sub clavian vein routes for central venous catheterization are reviewed, and an overview of catheter maintenance and infection control presented. The internal jugular vein and subclavian vein are the two most useful sites for central venous access. There is greater experience with the subclavian vein, and it is largely because of a perceived high complication rate associated with this approach that the internal jugular vein was cultivated as an access route in adults. The debate remains as to which route is preferable. In reality, each method has advantages in a given clinical situation.