Adequate vascular access is of paramount importance in oncology patients. It is important in the initial phase of surgical treatment or chemotherapy, as well as in the chronic management of advanced cancer and in the palliative care setting. We present an overview of the available vascular access devices and of the most relevant issues regarding insertion and management of vascular access. Part...

Physicians spend a considerable amount of time and effort inserting catheters and needles into patients. Central venous catheters are the mainstay of measuring hemodynamic variables that cannot be assessed by noninvasive procedures. These catheters also allow hemodialysis, parenteral nutritional support, delivery of medications, and catecholamine administration. Arterial pressure catheters are ...