A central venous line is a tube inserted through a vein, reaching the chest area of the large vein that returns blood to the heart, or sometimes the heart itself. This line serves multiple purposes, such as enabling the infusion of concentrated solutions with fewer complications. It also allows for the monitoring of specific blood pressures, like central venous pressure, pulmonary artery pressure, and pulmonary wedge pressure. Additionally, it can be used to assess fluid volume and vascular resistance. The catheter's near end can be attached to a chamber for administering injections over several months. This setup eliminates the need for frequent arm injections or drips and enables patients to receive medication or fluids at home rather than in a hospital.Central venous lines can be temporary or long-term. Long-term options include cuffed or tunneled lines and long lines ending in a rubber bulb or reservoir. Potential complications include pneumothorax (air in the chest due to a punctured lung), hemothorax (bleeding in the chest), hydrothorax (fluid in the chest), bleeding into or under the skin, and infection. If the line disconnects, air may enter the bloodstream, leading to breathing issues or other problems.This medical device is also known as a central venous catheter, and sometimes the term "venous" is omitted, leaving it referred to simply as a central line or central catheter.
