Comparative Ultrasound: novel finger probe versus classic probe

Abstract

INTRODUCTIONUltrasonography (USS) is the stethoscope of the future. USS probes have evolved to improve structural identification. This study investigated a novel shaped probe used by first‐year medical students (FMS) conducting a clinical procedure.METHODSLiterature search was conducted on texts, specialty journals and websites regarding the use USS finger probe by FMS performing invasive techniques. FMS performed timed USS‐guided cannulation to the internal jugular (IJV) and subclavian (SCV) veins on a blue phantom torso, and identified them on a volunteer using a novel USS finger and a classic probe. A questionnaire asked about probe preference.RESULTSLiterature search revealed no studies comparing finger and classic probes, nor USS‐guided central line techniques being conducted by FMS. FMS identified and cannulated the IJV and SCV using both probes within 6 minutes with statistical significance. Questionnaire revealed FMS preferred the finger probe.DISCUSSIONUSS is a safe, non‐invasive imaging medium proven successful for invasive procedures. This study demonstrated FMS could interpret USS while conducting a common procedure. Finger probe proved successful in structure identification and was preferred to the classic probe due to its combined tactile presence.CONCLUSIONThis pilot study of a novel finger USS probe was successful identifying structures by FMS, suggesting future studies.