The Evolving Technology of Venous Access

Imagine the era — only a century ago — when no means of vascular access existed for the life-sustaining support of critically ill patients. In 1832, in the wake of the second cholera pandemic, there were encouraging reports that silver cannulas attached to syringes could be introduced into basilic veins for rehydration.1 Because of the limited success with this technique, intravenous saline would not be accepted as therapy for many decades. With advancing knowledge of electrolyte physiology and the availability of steel needles, however, the therapeutic use of intravenous fluid became established.Subsequently, the advent of penicillin and the need . . .