[Evaluation of the central venous pressure as a measure for fluid and volume therapy]

Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure more accurately reflects left ventricular function than does central venous pressure. However, left ventricular function is the best measure for peripheral perfusion and, therefore, for adequate fluid volume therapy. In only 13 out of 32 patients monitorized by Swan-Ganz catheter we found a correlation among central venous pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure. Studying the histories of the group without correlation we found significant cardiac and pulmonary diseases. Therefore, if central venous pressure is used for monitoring of fluid volume administration the history and physical findings of the pulmonary cardiac system have to be strictly considered. Sharp rises of the central venous pressure after small amounts of fluid intake carry the risk of pulmonary edema.