Based on the data from this study, we conclude that femoral vein catheterization with a polyurethane catheter is associated with an 8.5% frequency rate of femoral vein thrombosis. Thrombosis in the popliteal vein or posterior tibial vein is higher (25.7%), but is homolateral to the catheter with only a 2.8% frequency rate. Infectious complications are low and similar to those of other central venous routes. Given the acceptable rate of clinically important complications, femoral venous catheterization offers an attractive alternate site of insertion to the jugular and subclavian veins for central venous access in the critically ill.

The results of the present study show that alfentanil, sufentanil, and fentanyl produce similar transient increases in ICP when administered by bolus injection in patients with increased ICP. No evidence of cerebral ischemia was observed in the study patients.

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In this matched before/after study, implementation of an electronic checklist was associated with positive effects on patient outcomes, especially on VAP. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these observations.

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