Further exploration of the location of common femoral vein by computed tomography reformation: For catheterization under fluoroscopy guidance

Purpose: Localization of the femoral vein traditionally relies on palpation of femoral arterial pulsation. For establishing venous access under fluoroscopy guidance, we evaluated the relationship between common femoral veins (CFVs) and bony structures. Methods: Sixty patients with abdominal computed tomography scans between October 2009 and May2010 were selected randomly for inclusion in the study. We used the RaySum reconstruction technique to display the bony landmark from the iliac crest to the upper femur and the course of bilateral CFVs. Results: Between the superior and middle femoral head lines, the bilateral CFV tended to locate between the inner and outer cortex lines of teardrop (68.3% on right side and 65.0% on left side). The CFV is located more laterally among people who are older than 50 years with statistical significance. Conclusion: Bony structures provide reliable information for venous access of CFVs under fluoroscopy guidance. The course of bilateral CFVs is more laterally located among elder patients with statistical significance.