[Influence of catheter type and site on infection incidence. Prevention techniques]

Relative risk of catheter-related sepsis varies according to the site and the catheter type chosen. Subclavian vein route is usually safer than internal jugular vein route. However internal jugular catheter can be tunnelled on the thorax which may decrease infections risk. Infection rate is very low during arterial cannulation whatever the site used, including femoral artery. The use of Swan-Ganz catheter is accompanied by a very low infection rate, despite repeated interventions on the catheter line. Prevention of infection is a major goal during vascular catheterization. A strict aseptic procedure must be used during placement of the line. Same aseptic precautions must be taken during every manipulation of the line. The best results are obtained when the management of the intravascular line is under the responsibility of a specialized "Catheter Team".