title: [Catheterization of the axillary vein in intensive care. Analysis of a series of 151 cases].
abstract: In order to lower the risks of infection and other complications during prolonged venous catheterization, percutaneous axillary venepuncture is advocated as an access route to the superior vena cava. This study relates the results of 151 attempts. Most of the patients were tracheostomized and under controlled ventilation. Catheterization was successful in 79% of the cases (119 cases). In 92 cases access to the superior vena cava was sought and in 27 cases the pulmonary artery. No major complication was observed. Bacterial contamination of the catheter tip was found in 21% of cases. Percutaneous catheterization of the axillary vein appeared to be a safe and reliable technique, especially for prolonged catheterization in high risk patients.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001367:Axillary Vein; D002404:Catheterization / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D003422:Critical Care; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged
vernacular_title: Cathétérisme de la veine axillaire en réanimation. Analyse d'une série de 151 observations.