Intraosseous infusion: an alternative route of pediatric intravascular access.

Substantial difficulties can be encountered when establishing rapid intravascular access in critically ill children. The historic technique of tibial intraosseous infusion is presented as an alternate intravenous route in children less than 3 years old. Review of the literature reveals this technique to be a rapid, reliable method with an acceptably low complication rate. Substances absorbed through the marrow, flow rates, technical difficulties, and complications are discussed.