Ultrasound-guided central venous catheterplacement through the axillary vein in cardiaccritical care patients: safety and feasibility of a noveltechnique in a prospective observational study

摘要

Central venous catheterization is essential for careful administration of fluids and drugs in cardiaccritical care patients. The axillary vein might represent an alternative to subclavian and jugular vein accesses, with theadvantage of being extra-thoracic, more distal from the pleural space and with more likehood of comfort for the patient.Conventional ultrasound-guided cannulation of the axillary vein is technically demanding and does not guarantee precisevisualization of the needle tip.METHODS: We describe a new in-plane technique with a dedicated bracket support for the needle, giving full tip controland continuous visualization of the tip and vessel, making the maneuver easier and safer. In a prospective observationalstudy we also report the feasibility and safety of the novel procedure in a series of 35 cardiac critical care patients, alsoreceiving non-invasive ventilatory support and/or being fully anti-coagulated.RESULTS: With the novel technique, we obtained 97% success with procedural times comparable to other insertion sitesand without complications.CONCLUSIONS: Placement of a central line catheter in the axillary vein using a novel ultrasound-guided bracketassisted technique may be a feasible, safe and rapid alternative to the conventional jugular and subclavian approaches.