Location of central venous catheters in children by endocavitary ECG: A new technique

A new technique to establish the position of a central venous catheter (CVC) by endocavitary ECGraphy is described. The principle is based on the fact that the catheter itself may be considered as an electrical conductor by means of its liquid content (saline solution), therefore acting as an exploring electrode. The intrinsic deflection of the P wave shows the proper position of the CVC tip at the sinus node level. The technique has been successfully utilised in 52 children needing antineoplastic chemotherapy and/or total parenteral nutrition, thus avoiding chest X-ray control, which is troublesome and potentially harmful in neonates and infants.