Ultrasound-guided Internal Jugular Vein Catheterization Research Articles

Real-time 3D Transesophageal Echocardiography for the Placement of Ventriculoatrial Shunt: A Case Series and Technical Note.

Ventriculoatrial (VA) shunts are used to manage hydrocephalus and idiopathic intracranial hypertension when peritoneal drainage of cerebrospinal fluid is not feasible. The technique of distal catheter placement during VA shunt insertion is controversial, especially between fluoroscopy-guided and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE)-guided techniques. We retrospectively reviewed our utilization of 2-dimensional (2D) ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein catheterization combined with 3-dimensional (3D) TEE-guided distal VA shunt placement and compared it to the conventional fluoroscopy-guided technique. Ten patients underwent 18 VA shunt insertion procedures between November 2012 and October 2022. The patients had a mean (SD) age of 50 (19) years, body mass index of 35 (14)m/kg², and minimal comorbidities. All had previously undergone failed ventriculoperitoneal shunt procedures. The use of 2D ultrasound to guide internal jugular vein catheterization and 3D TEE to guide distal catheter placement resulted in 22-minute shorter surgical times compared with the fluoroscopy-guided technique (91 minutes vs. 113 minutes, respectively). No complications were noted with either technique. The combined use of 2D ultrasound and 3D TEE allowed for faster procedure times and more precise distal catheter confirmation, contributing to a more streamlined surgical procedure. This small case series underscores the feasibility, efficiency, and safety of anesthesiologist-delivered combined 2D ultrasound and 3D TEE during VA shunt insertion. The use of 3D TEE allows repeated confirmation of distal catheter position and has potential to improve patient safety during rare but complex VA shunt insertion procedures.

Comparison of ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein and supraclavicular subclavian vein catheterization in critically ill patients: a prospective, randomized clinical trial

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness and safety of ultrasound-guided out-of-plane internal jugular vein (OOP-IJV) and in-plane supraclavicular subclavian vein (IP-SSCV) catheterization in adult intensive care unit.MethodsA total of 250 consecutive patients requiring central venous catheterization, were randomly assigned to undergo either ultrasound-guided OOP-IJV or IP-SSCV cannulation. All catheterizations were carried out by three physicians. The primary outcome was the first attempt success rate. Ultrasound scanning time, venous puncture time, insertion time, overall access time, number of puncture attempts, number of needle redirections, success rate, guidewire advancing difficulties, venous collapse and adverse events were also documented.ResultsThe first attempt success rate was significantly higher in IP-SSCV group (83.2%) compared to OOP-IJV group (63.2%) (p = 0.001). The IP-SSCV group was associated with a longer ultrasound scanning time (16.54 ± 13.51 vs. 5.26 ± 4.05 s; p < 0.001) and a shorter insertion time (43.98 ± 26.77 vs. 53.12 ± 40.21 s; p = 0.038). In the IP-SCCV group, we recorded a fewer number of puncture attempts (1.16 ± 0.39 vs. 1.47 ± 0.71; p < 0.001), needle redirections (0.69 ± 0.58 vs. 1.17 ± 0.95; p < 0.001), difficulties in guidewire advancement (2.4% vs. 27.4%; p < 0.001), venous collapse (2.4%, vs. 18.4%; p < 0.001) and adverse events (8.8% vs. 13.6%; p = 0.22).ConclusionsThe IP-SSCV approach is an effective and a safe alternative to the classic OOP-IJV catheterization in critical adult patients.Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03879954. Registered March 19, 2019—Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03879954.

Combined short-axis out-of-plane and long-axis in-plane approach versus long-axis in-plane approach for ultrasound-guided central venous catheterization in infants and small children: A randomized controlled trial.

The ultrasound-guided long-axis in-plane approach for central venous catheterization in infants and small children can prevent posterior wall penetration. The combined short-axis out-of-plane and long-axis in-plane approach reportedly prevents such penetration in adults. To test the hypothesis of non-inferiority of the combined approach to the long-axis in-plane approach, we compared the two approaches in infants and small children. Patients were randomized based on whether they underwent ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein catheterization using the combined or long-axis in-plane approach. Posterior wall penetration rates, first-attempt success rates, overall success rates within 20 min; scanning, puncture, and procedure durations; and number of attempts were compared between the groups. In the combined and long-axis in-plane groups (n = 55 per group), the posterior wall penetration rates were 5.5% (3/55) and 3.6% (2/55) (P = 0.65), the first-attempt success rates were 94.5% (52/55) and 92.7% (51/55) (P = 0.70), and the overall success rates within 20 min were 100% (55/55) and 98.2% (54/55) (P = 0.32), respectively. In the combined and long-axis in-plane groups, the median (interquartile range) scanning durations were 21 (16.5–34.8) s and 47 (29.3–65) s (P<0.0001), the puncture durations were 114 (83–170) s and 74 (52.3–117.3) s (P = 0.0002), and the procedure durations were 141 (99–97.8) s and 118 (88.5–195.5) s (P = 0.14), respectively. The median number of attempts was 1 (interquartile range: 1–1, range: 1–3) in both groups (P = 0.72). Similar to the long-axis in-plane approach, the combined approach for internal jugular vein catheterization prevented posterior wall penetration in infants and small children.Trial registration: This trial was registered before patient enrollment in the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry, registration number UMIN000039387 (https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-bin/ctr/ctr_view_reg.cgi?recptno=R000044907).

Application of ultrasound-guided central venous catheterization at various sites in infants with shock

To study the clinical characteristics of ultrasound-guided central venous catheterization at various sites in infants with shock, and to explore how to quickly select the site for central venous puncture in infants with shock. The medical data of 112 infants who were diagnosed with shock and underwent central venous catheterization in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Dongguan Children's Hospital Affiliated to Guangdong Medical University, from January 2016 to December 2020 were reviewed retrospectively. The patients were divided into an ultrasound group (n=70) and a body surface location group (n=42) according to whether the catheterization was carried out under ultrasound guidance. The application of ultrasound-guided catheterization at various sites in infants was summarized and analyzed, and the success rate of one-time puncture, overall success rate, catheterization time, and complications were compared between these sites. Compared with the body surface location group, the ultrasound group had a significantly higher success rate of one-time puncture, a significantly shorter catheterization time, and a significantly reduced incidence rate of complications in internal jugular vein and femoral vein catheterizations (P<0.05). In the ultrasound group, the proportion of internal jugular vein catheterization was the highest (51%, 36/70), followed by femoral vein catheterization (33%, 23/70), and subclavian vein catheterization (16%, 11/70). For the comparison between different puncture sites under ultrasound guidance, internal jugular vein catheterization showed the shortest time of a successful catheterization [5.5 (5.0, 6.5) minutes] (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence rate of complications among the different puncture sites groups (P>0.05). In infants with shock, ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein catheterization can be used as the preferred catheterization method for clinicians.

Effects of practitioner\u2019s experience on the clinical performance of ultrasound-guided central venous catheterization: a randomized trial

We investigated whether two needle insertion techniques for ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein (IJV) catheterization differ in the number of needling attempts and complication rate between inexperienced and experienced practitioners. A total of 308 patients requiring IJV catheterization were randomly assigned into one of four groups: IJV catheterization performed by inexperienced practitioners using either Seldinger (IE-S; n = 78) or modified Seldinger technique (IE-MS; n = 76) or IJV catheterization performed by experienced practitioners using either Seldinger (E-S; n = 78) or modified Seldinger technique (E-MS; n = 76). All catheterizations were performed under the real-time ultrasound guidance. The number of needling attempts was not significantly different between the two techniques within each experience group (between IE-S vs. IE-MS P = 0.550, between E-S and E-MS P = 0.834). Time to successful catheterization was significantly shorter in the E-S group compared to E-MS group (P < 0.001) while no significant difference between IE-S and IE-MS groups (P = 0.226). Complication rate was not significantly different between the two techniques within each experience group. Practitioner’s experience did not significantly affect the clinical performance of needle insertion techniques during ultrasound-guided IJV catheterization except the time to successful catheterization. Regarding the number of needling attempts and complication rate, both techniques could be equally recommended regardless of practitioner’s experience.Trial registration: clinicaltrials.gov (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03077802).

Combined short- and long-axis method for internal jugular vein catheterization in premature newborns: A randomized controlled trial.

Rapid central venous catheterization is critical for the rescue and perioperative management of premature infants requiring surgery. Ultrasound-guided dynamic needle tip positioning (DNTP) has been widely used as a very effective technique, especially in paediatric vascular puncture and catheterization. However, for low-weight premature newborns, central vein catheterization still poses greater difficulties for paediatricians and paediatric anaesthesiologists. This prospective randomized control study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of combined short- and long-axis (CSLA) internal jugular vein catheterization for premature newborns in comparison with the DNTP technique. A total of 90 premature newborns (gestational age <37weeks and <28days after birth) who were scheduled for surgery were included in this study. All enrolled premature newborns were randomly divided into two groups (n=45): the CSLA group and the DNTP group. We compared the first-puncture success rate, total success rate, procedure time, number of needle passes, occurrence of complications and other outcome measures between the two groups. The two groups (n=45 per group) were similar in sex, gestational age, weight, mean arterial blood pressure, and vein-related measurements of the internal jugular vein. Total success was achieved in 43 (95.6%) and 36 (80.0%) patients in the CSLA and DNTP groups respectively. Compared with the DNTP group, the CSLA group showed a significantly higher first-attempt success rate (71.1% vs 46.7%, χ2 =5.5533, P=.0184) and significantly fewer needle passes (1.0[1.0-2.0] vs 2.0[1.0-3.0], χ2 =-2.6094, P=.0091). There was no significant difference between the groups in the procedure time (368[304-573] vs 478[324-79]s, Z=-1.7690, P=.0769). Complications occurred in both groups, but the incidence was significantly lower in the CSLA group than in the DNTP group (6.7% vs 22.2%, χ2 =4.4056, P=.0358). Ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein catheterization by the CSLA method is effective and safe. The CSLA method may be superior to the DNTP technique in premature newborns.

Application of wireless ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein catheterization in hemodialysis patients

Objective To explore the effectiveness and safety of wireless ultrasound guidance in the treatment of internal jugular vein catheterization in hemodialysis patients. Methods We collected 120 patients who were treated in our hospital's blood purification center from October 2017 to October 2018, then we made a random grouping, divided into traditional group and wireless ultrasound group, each group was 60 cases.Anatomical markers were used to locate and puncture in the traditional group, while the location and puncture of the wireless ultrasound group were performed under the guidance of wireless ultrasound. The gender, age, body mass index(BMI), number of difficult catheterizations, average puncture time, average puncture frequency, one puncture success rate, secondary puncture success rate, total puncture success rate, and complication rate were compared between the two groups. Results There were no significant differences in clinical data between gender, age, BMI and number of difficult catheterizations between the two groups(P>0.05). The average puncture time, average puncture frequency and complication rate in the wireless ultrasound group were lower than those in the traditional group, and the difference was statistically significant(P<0.05). The success rate of one puncture and the success rate of secondary puncture in the wireless ultrasound group were higher than those in the traditional group, and the difference was statistically significant(P<0.05). Conclusions Wireless ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein catheters are more convenient, easier, safer, and faster.It is safer and more effective for patients with difficult catheterization(obesity, history of internal jugular vein catheterization, incompatibility of body position, vascular malformation, edema). Key words: Renal Dialysis; Punctures; Ultrasonography, Doppler, Color

Practical guide for safe central venous catheterization and management 2017.

Central venous catheterization is a basic skill applicable in various medical fields. However, because it may occasionally cause lethal complications, we developed this practical guide that will help a novice operator successfully perform central venous catheterization using ultrasound guidance. The focus of this practical guide is patient safety. It details the fundamental knowledge and techniques that are indispensable for performing ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein catheterization (other choices of indwelling catheters, subclavian, axillary, and femoral venous catheter, or peripherally inserted central venous catheter are also described in alternatives).

A Shallow Angle Short-Axis Out-of-Plane Approach Reduces the Rate of Posterior Wall Injuries in Central Venous Catheterization: A Simulation Study

The short-axis out-of-plane approach (SAX-OOP) is commonly used in ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein catheterization. However, this approach has a risk of posterior vein wall injuries. The authors hypothesized that a shallow angle of approach may reduce the rate of posterior wall injuries compared with the conventional steep angle approach. The present study aimed to evaluate whether a difference in the angle of approach of the needle affects the rate of posterior wall injuries. The present study was a randomized crossover-controlled trial involving 40 medical residents, conducted in the clinical training center at a hospital with a residency program. The primary outcome measure was the rate of posterior vessel wall injuries. Subjects received a didactic lecture during which the instructors taught three SAX-OOP techniques including the conventional free-hand method (procedure C), a needle navigation system (procedure N), and a shallow puncture angle using a guidance system (procedure S). Participants were trained in these approaches under supervision and each technique tested in a simulation environment. Thirty-four of 40 residents had no previous experience with central venous catheterization and were included in the final analysis. The rate of posterior vessel wall injuries in procedure S (9%) was significantly lower than using the other approaches (procedure C, 53%; procedure N, 41%). In conclusion, a shallow angle of approach using the SAX-OOP technique resulted in significantly fewer posterior vein wall injuries in central venous catheterization compared with steep angle techniques.

Efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein catheterization in low birth weight newborn

BackgroundCentral venous catheterization is not the first choice of vascular access in neonates. Success depends on the size of the vessel and the skill of the health professional performing the procedure. The internal jugular vein provides a predictable path for central venous cannulation, although it is more difficult to cannulate infants than adults and even more difficult in smaller newborns. MethodsWe conducted a prospective study in 100 newborns, in which a 4 Fr ultrasound-guided central venous catheter was placed in the right internal jugular vein (RIJV). The study population was low birth weight (LBW) newborns <2500g, very low birth weight (VLBW) newborns <1500g and extremely low birth weight (ELBW) newborns <1000g. ResultsThere were 53% female patients, mean gestational age was 31weeks, mean weight 1352g and the CVC was placed at a mean of 12days of extrauterine life. Birth weight distribution was 39% LBW; 33% VLBW and 28% ELBW. A mean of two (1–8) attempts were necessary with a procedure duration of 16.8 (10–40) minutes. Success of RIJV catheterization was 94%. One attempt was necessary in 50% and up to 5 attempts in 95.7%. Success by weight was VLBW, 97.2%; ELBW, 92.9%; LBW, 91.7%. A venous hematoma occurred in 5% of cases. ConclusionsUltrasound-guided RIJV cannulation with real-time visualization to gain access to the central venous circulation in low birth weight newborns is effective and safe.

Asymptomatic Mediastinal Hematoma as a Complication of Ultrasound-Guided Internal Jugular Vein Catheterization

Central venous catheterization is a frequently performed procedure in the intensive care units (ICU) for various treatments such as iv therapy, parenteral nutrition and hemodialysis but occasionally encountered complications can be fatal. Therefore, safe insertion with confirmation of correct positioning of the catheter is vital. Ultrasound (US)-guided insertion of catheters has been used widely, and its safety and efficacy have been demonstrated in several studies. However, this technique is not free from complications, such as carotid artery puncture, hemothorax, pneumothorax and infection. In this case, anterior mediastinal hematoma proceeded after US-guided internal jugular vein (IJV) catheterization.

Comparison of US-Guided Catheterization of the Right Internal Jugular Vein Using Medial-Oblique and Short Axis Techniques

Background: Although some investigations have shown higher rates of successful first attempt and fewer attempts by using ultrasound-guided Internal Jugular Vein (IJV) catheterization, arterial puncture is still common. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate US-guided catheterization of the right IJV via medial-oblique technique and also compare this technique to short-axis

OP-147 The Comparison of Long Axis and Short Axis Approaches in Ultrasound-Guided Internal Jugular Vein Catheterization

OP-147 The Comparison of Long Axis and Short Axis Approaches in Ultrasound-Guided Internal Jugular Vein Catheterization

Ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein catheterization in critically ill pediatric patients.

PurposeContinuous intravenous access is imperative in emergency situations. Ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein (IJV) catheterization was investigated in critically ill pediatric patients to assess the feasibility of the procedure.MethodsPatients admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit between February 2011 and September 2012 were enrolled in this study. All patients received a central venous catheter from attending house staff under ultrasound guidance. Outcome measures included successful insertion of the catheter, cannulation time, number of cannulation attempts, and number and type of resulting complications.ResultsForty-one central venous catheters (93.2%) were successfully inserted into 44 patients (21 males and 23 females; mean age, 6.54±1.06 years). Thirty-three patients (75.0%) had neurological disorders. The right IJV was used for catheter insertion in 34 cases (82.9%). The mean number of cannulation attempts and the mean cannulation time was 1.57±0.34 and 14.07±1.91 minutes, respectively, the mean catheter dwell time was 14.73±2.5 days. Accidental catheter removal was observed in 9 patients (22.0%). Six patients (13.6%) reported complications, the most serious being catheter-related sepsis, which affected 1 patient (2.3%). Other complications included 2 reported cases of catheter malposition (4.6%), and 1 case each of arterial puncture (2.3%), pneumothorax (2.3%), and skin infection (2.3%).ConclusionThe results suggest that ultrasound-guided IJV catheterization can be performed easily and without any serious complications in pediatric patients, even when performed by visiting house staff. Therefore, ultrasound-guided IJV catheterization is strongly recommended for critically ill pediatric patients.

Visualization of fluid drainage pathways in lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes using a mouse model to test a lymphatic drug delivery system.

Curing/preventing micrometastasis to lymph nodes (LNs) located outside the surgically resected area is essential for improving the morbidity and mortality associated with breast cancer and head and neck cancer. However, no lymphatic therapy system exists that can deliver drugs to LNs located outside the dissection area. Here, we demonstrate proof of concept for a drug delivery system using MXH10/Mo-lpr/lpr mice that exhibit systemic lymphadenopathy, with some peripheral LNs being as large as 10 mm in diameter. We report that a fluorescent solution injected into the subiliac LN (defined as the upstream LN within the dissection area) was delivered successfully to the proper axillary LN (defined as the downstream LN outside the dissection area) through the lymphatic vessels. Our results suggest that this approach could be used before surgical resection to deliver drugs to downstream LNs outside the dissection area. We anticipate that our methodology could be applied clinically, before surgical resection, to cure/prevent micrometastasis in LNs outside the dissection area, using techniques such as ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein catheterization.

Impact of the neutral position and rotation of the head in ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein catheterization on duration of procedure and complications

In internal jugular vein (IJV) catheterization, neck rotation may enhance the visibility of anatomical landmarks; however, it may increase the risk of carotid artery (CA) puncture by replacing the position of the IJV in relation to the CA. In our study, during US- guided IJV catheterizations, we investigated the effects of changing the position of the IJV by the CA depending on the neutral position and 45° rotation of the head on duration of procedure and complications.

4

Introduction: Emerging data suggests that Acute Care Nurse Practioners (ACNP) have successfully been integrated into Intensive Care Units (ICU) across the United States. While the ACNP scope of practice and how to bill for procedures has been described, the ideal method to train and credential ACNPs to perform invasive procedures has not. We describe our initial experience training ACNPs to perform invasive critical care procedures utilizing our Fresh Tissue Dissection Lab (FTDL) and simulation program. Methods: Seven ACNP were given a self-directed didactic followed by a four-hour practicum utilizing perfused fresh tissue cadavers. The cadavers were perfused via femoral artery and vein cannulation with colored pressurized fluids simulating arterial and venous blood. Procedures performed included central venous landmark guided subclavian (SC) and ultrasound (US) guided internal jugular (IJ) vein catheter insertion, orotracheal intubation, tube thoracostomy, thoracentesis, and paracentesis. Pretest and posttest knowledge assessments were administered. Overall and specific procedural confidence was evaluated utilizing a retrospective pre-practicum and post-practicum analysis with a 5-point Likert scale (1, least confident and 5, most confident). Results: The mean years of clinical experience for the group was 4.1 years (range 4 months to 13 years). Each ACNP scored a 100% on both the pretest and posttest knowledge assessment. The overall procedural confidence for all procedures improved by 1.44, from 2.53 (SD± 0.629) to 3.97 (SD± 0.320) (p <0.001). For the insertion of central lines, overall confidence improved by 1.17 (p=0.013), for all other procedures confidence improved by 1.5 (p=0.01). Conclusions: Our initial experience utilizing our FTDL and simulation program to train ACNPs showed improved confidence scores after both the self-directed didactic and the FTDL practicum. The FTDL perfused pressurized model allowed differentiation of venous and arterial vessels during landmark guided SC vein and US guided IJ vein catheterization. This practicum has been integrated into our ACNP credentialing process to perform ICU procedures independently. Further study is needed to determine the ideal method to train and credential ACNPs to perform invasive procedures independently in the intensive care unit.

Relationship between the Right Internal Jugular Vein and Carotid Artery at Ipsilateral Head Rotation

Ultrasound-guided right internal jugular vein catheterization (RIJV) should be the first choice to decrease the catheter-related complications in high-risk hemodialysis patients. For this procedure, clinicians should identify the optimum positions of the RIJV, including its lower overlap with the carotid artery (CA) and high cross-sectional area of the vein. The aim of this prospective randomized study to evaluate the effects of mild ipsilateral head rotation combined with Trendelenburg position on RIJV cross-sectional area and its relation to the CA in adult patients. Forty ASA I–II patients who were undergoing elective surgery were enrolled for this study. The subjects were asked to remain supine in the 15–20° Trendelenburg position. Two-dimensional ultrasound was then used to measure the degree of overlap between the RIJV and CA, the cross-sectional area of the RIJV. These measurements were compared between head rotation to the >30° left, <30° left, neutral, and <30° right positions. When the head was in the >30° left position, overlap was seen in 38 of 40 patients (95%). As the head was rotated from >30° left to <30° right, the CA-RIJV overlap (from 95% to 57.5%), and the cross-sectional area (from 14.2 mm to 8.7 mm) significantly decreased. In conclusion, when the head was turned to <30° right, the CA-RIJV overlap significantly decreased, and the cross-sectional area also decreased. When clinicians determine the optimal head position before RIJV cannulation, it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of the different head positions from >30° left to <30° right.

Echogenic Technology Improves Cannula Visibility during Ultrasound-Guided Internal Jugular Vein Catheterization via a Transverse Approach

Objective. Echogenic technology has recently enhanced the ability of cannulas to be visualized during ultrasound-guided vascular access. We studied whether the use of an EC could improve visualization if compared with a nonechogenic vascular cannula (NEC) during real-time ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein (IJV) cannulation in the intensive care unit (ICU). Material and Methods. We prospectively enrolled 80 mechanically ventilated patients who required central venous access in a randomized study that was conducted in two medical-surgical ICUs. Forty patients underwent EC and 40 patients were randomized to NEC. The procedure was ultrasound-guided IJV cannulation via a transverse approach. Results. The EC group exhibited increased visibility as compared to the NEC group (88% ± 8% versus 20% ± 15%, resp. P < 0.01). There was strong agreement between the procedure operators and independent observers (k = 0.9; 95% confidence intervals assessed by bootstrap analysis = 0.87–0.95; P < 0.01). Access time (5.2 s ± 2.5 versus 10.6 s ± 5.7) and mechanical complications were both decreased in the EC group compared to the NEC group (P < 0.05). Conclusion. Echogenic technology significantly improved cannula visibility and decreased access time and mechanical complications during real-time ultrasound-guided IJV cannulation via a transverse approach.

乳幼児の内頸静脈穿刺成功率を高めるために

近年発表された，小児における超音波ガイド下内頸静脈穿刺のメタアナリシスでは，超音波ガイドが穿刺を容易にすることが示されなかった．これは，小児においては，超音波ガイド下穿刺が直ちに穿刺を容易にせず，手技の訓練およびなんらかの追加の工夫が必要なことを示しているのかもしれない．超音波ガイド下穿刺を困難にする要因の一つに，穿刺針や超音波プローブが静脈を潰すことがある．本稿では，静脈が潰されないための対策としてわれわれが行っている皮膚牽引静脈拡張法を紹介し，超音波ガイド下法における穿刺針の針先の見え方などについて述べる．