Dynamic 2D Ultrasound Improves Arterial Line Placement

Ultrasound has been shown to decrease complications of central line placement and its use is now considered standard of care in most situations. Several recent studies have suggested that ultrasound has similar benefits for arterial line placement (NEJM JW Emerg Med Jun 2015 and Anaesthesia 2015; Apr 8 [e-pub]). These authors conducted a systematic review of 13 randomized, controlled trials comparing ultrasound against traditional palpation for radial artery catheterization. Dynamic 2D ultrasound was assessed in nearly 2000 patients in 12 trials, and Doppler ultrasound was studied in 666 patients in 2 trials.

Dynamic 2D ultrasound reduced the risk of first-attempt failure by 32%, and reduced mean time to success and hematoma complications. D…