I need to gain vascular access: ultrasound-guided techniques

Abstract

Ultrasound has been used to assist line placement for many years, and it is known that ultrasound aids the placement of central and peripheral lines, both in terms of speed of access and reduction of complications. The indications for the use of ultrasound in vascular access vary. In central access, ultrasound should be used at all times unless time-critical intervention mandates otherwise, e.g. in cardiac arrest. In femoral access, it is a very useful adjunct and can be used for reliable, rapid large vein access. In peripheral access, it has a use when conventional access fails. In general terms ultrasound can be used to identify relevant anatomy prior to cannulation, or to guide the process of cannulation. This paper outlines the approaches available.