External jugular Groshong catheter is associated with fewer complications than a subclavian Argyle catheter

Abstract

Background: To demonstrate the efficacy and safety of insertion of a Groshong catheter via the external jugular vein (EJV) for central vein access.

Methods: Central venous access was done by either insertion of a Groshong catheter via the EJV or an Argyle catheter via the subclavian vein with single puncture.

Results: Eighty patients (group 1) were treated with 146 subclavian venous catheters for 2,770 catheter-days, and 98 patients (group 2) were treated with 147 external jugular venous catheters for 2,381 catheter-days. Fever appeared in 36.3% (53/146) and 16.3% (24/147) of the patients in groups 1 and 2, respectively (p < 0.01). The malposition and pneumothorax rates were 17.1% (25/146) and 2.0% (3/147; p < 0.01), and 2.7% (4/146) and 0% (0/147; p < 0.05) in the two groups, respectively.

Conclusions: Insertion of a Groshong catheter via the EJV is more acceptable for central venous access than insertion of a conventional subclavian venous catheter.