[The technic of infusion treatment and parenteral feeding in newborns and infants]

The various infusion techniques used in The Children's Hospital of the University Zurich are described. The undoubted advantages in the application of central venous catheters have to be weighed against some dangers, which exist even when using the best techniques. Infection is the most important danger. Central venous catheters should, therefore, be used only if and as long there is a definite indication. In pediatric medicine and surgery the most important indications are certain cases of pre- and postoperative infusion therapy, treatment of shock as well as long-term parenteral alimentation. The most effective measures for the prevention of catheter infections are an aseptic insertion technique and the removal of the catheter as soon as possible.