The effects of central venous catheter location on waveform and results

ABSTRACT

The author describes two cases in which central venous catheter line placement was technically and functionally good, but subsequent data were misleading and resulted in inappropriate treatment decisions. Postoperative radiographs demonstrated malposition of the central venous catheters, despite good waveforms and function. Repositioning the catheter into a central vein resulted in dramatically different central venous pressure readings. Consequently, before a central venous catheter is used for monitoring and therapeutic access, its position should be checked radiographically.