INTRAATRIAL ECG RECORDING - A NEW AND SAFE METHOD FOR IMPLANTATION OFBROVIAC CATHETERS IN CHILDREN

Radiologic confirmation of central venous catheter (CVC) position is m andatory due to possible complications associated with false positioni ng. During the last 1.5 years, we used intra-atrial electrocardiogram (ECG) recording for intraoperative placement and documentation of CVCs , in 77 cases. We recorded the extremity and intra-atrial ECGs and the n performed an intraoperative X-ray, comparing the results. Intra-atri al ECG recording is a new, inexpensive, quick, and safe method for sur gical positioning and documentation of Broviac catheters in children.