Central venous catheters in children and neonates (part 3) : access via the femoral vein

Abstract

Central venous access via the femoral vein (FV) is safe, relatively easy and very usual in infants and children undergoing cardiac surgery for congenital heart disease. It has a low insertion-related complication rate. It is therefore a good choice for short-term central venous lines and a preferred insertion site for less experienced staff. The maintenance-related complications of thrombus formation and infections are higher compared to the internal jugular and the subclavian venous access. Some of these complications are reduced by the use of heparin bonded catheters, routine use of antibiotics, and timely removal of these lines in patients with persistent signs of infection but without another focus being defined.