[Evaluation of CVC-set].

Objective: Frequently central venous catheter sets do not contain all necessary materials. To evaluate, if combined measures using a specially arranged central venous catheter (CVC) set result in economical and clinical advantages, we compared both cost and time differences of a CVC complete set with ECG guide wire lead and an adhesive fixation with a standard set requiring additional materials, ECG fluid column lead and surgical suture. Furthermore, quality of different ECG leads, the reliability and tolerability of the adhesive fixation was compared.

Central venous catheter placement: comparison of the intravascular guidewire and the fluid column electrocardiograms.

Background And Objective: Placement of central venous catheters in patients is associated with several risks including endocardial lesions and dysrhythmias. Correct positioning of central venous catheters in the superior vena cava is essential for immediate use. The objective of a first study was to evaluate the signal quality of an intravascular electrocardiogram (ECG) during position control using a guidewire compared with the customary fluid column-based ECG system, and to assess its efficacy of correct placement of the central venous catheter.

Pharmacokinetics of levofloxacin during continuous veno-venous hemofiltration.

Objective: To study the effect of continuous veno-venous hemofiltration (CVVHF) on the pharmacokinetics of levofloxacin in critically ill patients with acute renal failure.

Design: Open-label study.

Setting: Anesthesiology ICU, University Hospital of Regensburg.