[Pathology of vein, artery and heart catheterization. Studies of autopsies].

Among 17,161 autopsies of children and adults 319 cases with complications after catheterization (catheterization of veins, arteries and heart) were analysed. The following pathologo-anatomical findings were established: Haemorrhages, thromboses, thrombophlebitis, incorrect positions of the catheter, embolism after catheterization, perforations of vessels, heart injuries, pleura injuries, pneumo- and haemothorax as well as sepsis and septicopyaemia. The complications were subdivided according to early and late injuries. In 10% the complications after catheterization were directly and indirectly connected with the cause of death. In the clinic the catheterization of the vein is a necessary diagnostic and therapeutic intervention. The evaluation of an extensive autopsy material, however, shows that severe and lethal complications may appear in connection with catheterization. For these reasons a broad use is prohibited. The demand of a strong indication is unrestrictedly to be supported.