The pulmonary artery catheter.

Purpose Of Review: To review recently published data on pulmonary artery catheter (PAC) use in critically ill patients and consider optimal use of the PAC in personalized clinical practice.

Recent Findings: Although PAC use has decreased considerably since the mid-1990s, PAC-derived variables can still have an important role in elucidating hemodynamic status and directing management in complex patients. Recent studies have suggested benefit, notably in patients having cardiac surgery.

Summary: Only a small number of acutely ill patients require a PAC and insertion should be individualized based on clinical context, availability of trained staff, and the possibility that measured variables will be able to help guide therapy.