[Complications of the cannulation of a central venous line]

Central venous catheters are essential in modern-day medical practice, particularly in intensive care units. Although such catheters provide necessary vascular access, their use puts patients at risk of mechanical and infectious complications. Unfortunately, these complications are associated with an increase of the morbidity-mortality, lengthen hospitalization and raise medical costs. Strategies should be implemented to reduce the incidence of these complications to improve clinical outcome and reduce health-care costs.