Aim

 This study was conducted to assess the degree of relationship between peripheral venous pressure and central venous pressure in patients undergoing CABG. 

Background

 Although, cannulation of a large central vein is the standard method for monitoring central vein pressure and providing secure vascular access, this method has serious complications. Moreover, previous studies in adults have demonstrated a clinically useful correlation between central and peripheral venous pressure. 

Method

 In this cross-sectional study, 100 adult patients with the mean age of 61 years that underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery in Shahid Rajaei Heart Center were enrolled. Peripheral venous pressure through a short 16-18 G catheter and central venous pressure through central line (inserted in right-internal jugular or subclavian vein) were monitored simultaneously in 5 stages: following the induction of anesthesia before, after and during cardiopulmonary bypass and after sternum closure. The results were analyzed by SPSS.  

Findings

 Findings indicated that the mean value of peripheral venous pressure was 11 mmHg and the mean value of central venous pressure was 9.5 mmHg, therefore the mean difference was 2±0.5 mmHg. The correlation of peripheral venous pressure and central venous pressure was 0.95 (P≤0.001) in all 5 evaluating times. Changes in other parameters did not affect the relationship between these two parameters. 

Conclusion

 We concluded that peripheral venous pressure can be used as a predictor of central venous pressure in patients with coronary artery bypass graft surgery.