Radiographic appearance of central venous catheters.

Central venous catheters (CVCs) are defined as venous access devices whose tips terminate in the superior or inferior vena cava, regardless of insertion site. CVCs allo reliable, painless, and repeated entry into the venous system and are commonly used for the administration of IV therapy, parenteral nutrition, and blood products as well as for the periodic blood sampling, hemodynamic monitoring, and hemodialysis. Catheter composition and design vary and depend on the duration of intended use and specific functions required. The purpose of this essay is to illustrate commonly used catheters, discuss factors governing catheter selection, and review important catheter-related complications.