[Special technique for the catheterization of "central" veins (Seldinger's or indirect technique) (author's transl)].

Catheterization of the superior caval vein with the indirect technique of the alpha system is practically always successful. The integrated guide wire combines high elasticity with firmness; this makes it possible to employ highly flexible catheters thereby reducing tissue damage and, consequently, the incidence of thrombosis. The advantages of the indirect technique of catheterization of the caval vein are: minimum trauma at the site of puncture; a high success rate; avoidance of misplacement of the catheter (the catheter is safely guided by the plastic wire); avoidance of cardiac disturbances as the catheters are of uniform lenght or are graduated.