Echogenic Technology Improves Cannula Visibility during Ultrasound-Guided Internal Jugular Vein Catheterization via a Transverse Approach

Abstract EN

Objective.

Echogenic technology has recently enhanced the ability of cannulas to be visualized during ultrasound-guided vascular access.

We studied whether the use of an EC could improve visualization if compared with a nonechogenic vascular cannula (NEC) during real-time ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein (IJV) cannulation in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Material and Methods.

We prospectively enrolled 80 mechanically ventilated patients who required central venous access in a randomized study that was conducted in two medical-surgical ICUs.

Forty patients underwent EC and 40 patients were randomized to NEC.

The procedure was ultrasound-guided IJV cannulation via a transverse approach.

Results.

The EC group exhibited increased visibility as compared to the NEC group (88% ± 8% versus 20% ± 15%, resp.

P<0.01).

There was strong agreement between the procedure operators and independent observers (k=0.9; 95% confidence intervals assessed by bootstrap analysis = 0.87–0.95; P<0.01).

Access time (5.2 s ± 2.5 versus 10.6 s ± 5.7) and mechanical complications were both decreased in the EC group compared to the NEC group (P<0.05).

Conclusion.

Echogenic technology significantly improved cannula visibility and decreased access time and mechanical complications during real-time ultrasound-guided IJV cannulation via a transverse approach.