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< Vol. 13 Issue 3 | Jul-Sep 2012 | pp. 269 - 403

Intra-cavitary ECG is an effective method for correct positioning the tip of tunneled Groshong catheters

Intra-cavitary ECG is an effective method for correct positioning the tip of tunneled Groshong catheters

J Vasc Access 2012; 13(3): 393 - 396

Article Type: TECHNIQUES IN VASCULAR ACCESS

DOI:10.5301/jva.5000065

Authors

Giuseppe Capozzoli, Gino Accinelli, Loris Fabbro, Roberta Pedrazzoli, Franco Auricchio

Abstract

Background: Intra-cavitary electrocardiography (ECG) is a well-known method for correct positioning of the tip of central venous catheters (CVC). A significant increase in the P wave, as registered by the intra-cavitary electrode, signals the entrance of the catheter into the right atrium. Methods: In this prospective observational study, 155 consecutive oncologic patients were enrolled for cannulation of the right or left internal jugular vein for insertion of a tunneled Groshong catheter. In 150 patients the tip was positioned by means of intracavitary ECG. Five patients with atrial fibrillation (N=4) or pacemaker in place (N=1) were excluded from the study. As the P-wave amplitude began to increase, the catheter was secured in that position and the insertion depth was registered. Results: Intra-cavitary ECG was always apt to detect the increase in the P wave. On the post-operative chest x-ray all Groshong catheters except two were in the correct position. Conclusions: The need for chest x-ray or fluoroscopy may be virtually eliminated by using the ECG technique.

Article History

  • • Accepted on 23/01/2012
  • • Available online on 01/03/2012
  • • Published in print on 28/09/2012

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Authors

  • Capozzoli, Giuseppe [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
    Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, Bolzano Central Hospital - Italy
  • Accinelli, Gino [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
    Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, Bolzano Central Hospital - Italy
  • Fabbro, Loris [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
    Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, Bolzano Central Hospital - Italy
  • Pedrazzoli, Roberta [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
    Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, Bolzano Central Hospital - Italy
  • Auricchio, Franco [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
    Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, Bolzano Central Hospital - Italy

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