ABSTRACT 797

Abstract

Background and aims: The adjunct of ultrasound guidance has been shown to have numerous beneficial effects on accessing arterial and venous structures. Needle visibility is a crucial requirement for successful and safe ultrasound navigated central or peripheral vein/artery canullation. Aims: We performed a prospective study on the ultrasonic imaging quality of various commercially available needles. We examined the influence of needle angle with regard to the ultrasound plane, 2 types of media surrounding the needle, and the impact of 4 different ultrasound machines. Methods: 10 needles were prospectively tested for 2 ultrasound planes at 2 different angles. Quality of needle visibility and ultrasound scans were described by using 6 criteria (visibility score range 0–10): visibility of needle; visibility of surrounding media; consistency of needle surface; formation of artifacts; degree of shadowing; and distinction of the needle from the surrounding media. Every ultrasound scan was performed in 2 media with 3 ultrasound devices and evaluated by 6 investigators. Results: In both models, visibility was good at 30-degrees but was decreased for all needles at a 45-degree angle as expected. 2 needles were difficult to identify in OP planes, less difference between needles were observed in IP. Worst needles for visualization generally were metal needles from original CVL packs. There was no significant impact of the ultrasound machine on image quality. Conclusions: Needle visibility was significantly better in nonstandard CVL needles than original ones. This fact should be taken into account needle manufacturers and developed a better US visibility needles (as happens for regional anesthesia needles).