Femoral artery and vein: Relevant anatomy for percutaneous catheterization.

    Relevant anatomy for percutaneous catheterization of the femoral artery and vein. The right femoral artery and vein run underneath the inguinal ligament, which connects the anterior-superior iliac spine and the pubic tubercle. The arterial puncture should be made approximately 1.5 to 2 fingerbreadths (3 cm) below the inguinal ligament and directly over the femoral artery pulsation. The venous puncture should be made at the same level but approximately 1 fingerbreadth medial to the arterial position. X, Puncture site. (From Baim DS, Grossman W. Percutaneous approach. In: Grossman W, ed. Cardiac Catheterization and Angiography [3rd ed.]. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger; 1986:60.)

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