Zentralvenenzugänge

Zentralvenenzugänge, often abbreviated as ZVK, are medical devices used to access the central venous system. This typically involves the insertion of a catheter into a large vein in the neck, chest, or groin, with the tip of the catheter residing in the superior vena cava or the right atrium. Zentralvenenzugänge are crucial for various medical interventions, including the long-term administration of medications, parenteral nutrition, hemodynamic monitoring, and for patients requiring frequent blood draws.

The insertion procedure is performed by trained medical professionals under sterile conditions. Different types of ZVKs exist, varying in length, diameter, and the number of lumens (channels) they possess, which allows for simultaneous administration of different substances or monitoring. Common insertion sites include the subclavian vein, internal jugular vein, and femoral vein.

Indications for the use of ZVKs are diverse and depend on the patient's clinical condition. They are essential in intensive care units, during major surgeries, and for patients with certain chronic diseases. However, like any invasive procedure, ZVKs carry potential risks, including infection, pneumothorax (collapsed lung), arterial puncture, and thrombosis (blood clot formation). Meticulous care and monitoring are therefore vital to minimize these complications. Removal of the ZVK is performed once it is no longer medically necessary.