Vascular access through the femoral vessels: indications and complications

A prospective study was performed to assess the indications for and complications of femoral vascular access in burn patients. In the study, 1655 femoral catheters (one-third arterial) were inserted in 232 patients; 136 of the catheters were inserted in 29 children (18 were younger than five years of age; the youngest was four months old). Insertion was "easy" in 83.9% of the insertions and "difficult" in 7.6%, with no difference noted between arterial and venous insertions. There were six significant complications: local abscess requiring drainage (2), arterial occlusion (3), and extravasation (1). No septic arthritis, deep infections, catheter erosions, venous thrombosis, embolisms, or late complications were noted. Venous and arterial access through the femoral vessels is an appropriate route for vascular access in burn patients when care is taken to minimize complications. This area is usually free of burn, provides ready access to central vessels, is technically easy, and has few complications.