Pulmonary artery flow-guided catheters in the perioperative period. Indications and complications.

The risk factor of pulmonary artery catheterization was assessed in 392 critically ill patients. Major indications for catheterization in the operating room were marginal cardiovascular reserve, anticipated large fluid and blood loss, and hypotensive anesthesia. Immediate complications included cardiac arrhythmia, carotid artery puncture, and pneumotherax. Long-term complications included positive bacterial cultures, pulmonary infarction and neuropathy. None of the complications were directly responsible for the deaths in this series. Pulmonary artery monitoring in critically ill persons is a relatively safe procedure.