Ultrasound-guided radial artery cannulation: A report of a simple and low-cost model for training

Abstract

IntroductionPracticing models for invasive procedure have proven useful in achieving better rates of success for physicians in training. Often, these models are not easy to get because of its expensive price. Radial artery cannulation is a common practice and its performance with ultrasonographic guidance has proven to be more efficient than traditional ways. We developed a low-cost practicing model that may aid physicians in training to master the ultrasound-guided radial artery cannulation technique and achieve better rates of success when performing this procedure. MethodsUsing ordinary materials such as a piece of pork ham and rubber torniquets, we were able to build a 3-vessel artery model with pulsatile flow. ResultsUltrasonographic imaging revealed a vessel-like material embedded inside the piece of ham. This material resembles an artery which can be punctured with an in-plane or out-of-plane technique and cannulated afterwards, either with a Seldinger or a modified Seldinger technique. Once cannulated, pulsatile flow can be obtained through the catheter used. ConclusionOur model building time was 30 minutes, and its price doesn’t exceed more than $7.50 USD. This model can be used by physicians in training to practice the cannulation of a radial artery using ultrasonographic guidance.