Percutaneous catheterization of the axillary artery in the pediatric patient

Abstract

Arterial cannulation of the critically ill child is an essential technique in the ICU. Commonly used vessels in the pediatric patient are the radial, dorsalis pedis, posterior tibial, and femoral arteries. During circulatory insufficiency, however, the distal perfusion may be compromised and the establishment of arterial access is difficult. We herein report the use of axillary artery cannulation in pediatric patients as an alternative to cannulation of other, more conventional arteries