[Intraosseous access in adults--an alternative if conventional vascular access is difficult?]

Intraosseous infusion is widely used in children, but its use in adults is much less common. This is probably because another vascular access can usually be achieved, and also because of lack of knowledge of the technique. Placement in adults is a quick procedure with a high rate of success. Drugs and fluids do not change the pharmacodynamics or pharmacokinetics of intraosseous administration, and anything can be given. Infusion rates have been achieved that in part make fluid resuscitation possible. Its uses are many and the contraindications few; complications are rare when simple guidelines are followed.