The application of the caval catheter in emergency medicine and intensive care has today become routine. Generally, even in severe shock this route of access to the cardiovascular system is available in order to apply life saving volume substitution. It also permits longterm infusions in modern intensive care, particularly continuous administration of high-osmolarity solutions in par enteral nutrition. In both fields it represents one of the most important diagnostic parameters of circulatory disorders, enabl ing the registration of central venous pressure. Its undeniable advantages are counterbalanced by the dangers inherent in all invasive methods. Since sufficient experience and precise sta tistics are now at our disposal, the time has come for a provisional survey. While a few years ago it was considered mandatory to propagate the central venous access in order to advance new therapeutic and diagnostic methods, it is now necessary to recon sider and reformulate indications for its use. In this task it is essential to weigh the expected advantages against the possible complications in each and every case of catheter application. Cri tical scrutiny must include evaluation of techniques, approaches, and finally catheter materials; this paper presents the results of such a survey. The physician is hereby given the opportunity of being completely informed of evaluating the validity of his standard procedures. VIm, April 1977 C. BURRI F. W. AHNEFELD Table of Contents I. Introduction. . . . . . . . . 1 II. Indications for Caval Catheter 3 A. Caval Catheter in Emergency Situations 3 B."

A key resource on traumatology written for physical therapists For physical therapists working in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and in private practice, knowledge of commonly seen traumatic and orthopedic injuries is essential to sound treatment planning. This book offers a focused, easy-to-use guide to general and specialized traumatology specifically geared to physical therapists and students. From types of injuries and resulting symptoms to diagnosis and treatment, the book brings a structure to treatment planning and greatly improves the communication between patient, physical therapist, and physician. Special Features: Covers all relevant medical information for physical therapists, including general traumatology (wound healing, surgical infections, soft tissue injuries, and fractures), special traumatology (cranial, spinal, thoracic, and abdominal injuries), and multiple trauma and first aid Offers guidelines on the benefits, effects, and limitations of physical therapy across a wide range of injuries and conditions Supplies 326 full-color illustrations that clarify every concept Includes bulleted summaries at the end of each chapter, for an instant review of the material Provides quiz questions and a glossary of medical terms at the end of each section Shares the unique perspective of a practicing physician who also teaches physical therapy at a major international rehabilitation center Providing a broad understanding of the pathologic basis of traumatic injuries and its effect on restoring function, this book is a key resource on formulating effective physical therapy strategies. Practicing physical therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapy students will find it an invaluable learning and practice tool.