In this randomized, controlled trial of surgery patients, first-attempt radial arterial line placement by anesthesiologists was more successful when guided by ultrasound than palpation or Doppler.
The radial artery is traditionally located by palpation, but this can be challenging in patients with hypotension, small-caliber vessels, or peripheral arterial disease. Multiple or prolonged attempts at cannulation can increase patient discomfort and contribute to vasospasm. Previous studies evaluating the efficacy of ultrasound-guided arterial line placement had small samples sizes or involved only children.
In this single-center study, 749 adult patients undergoing elective surgery were randomized to arterial line placement guided by palpation, Doppler, or bedside ultrasound. Participating anesthetist trainees had 1 to 4 years of experience and completed ultrasound and Doppler training on a radial artery simulator. The first-attempt succe…
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresConsultant / Advisory boardVerathon, Inc. (Scientific Advisory Board Member)
Editorial boardsScientific American Emergency Medicine; Manual of Emergency Airway Management (Editor-in-Chief)
Leadership positions in professional societiesPrograms Subcommittee Chair for the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine–Residency and Fellowship Fair
DisclosuresConsultant / Advisory boardVerathon, Inc. (Scientific Advisory Board Member)
Editorial boardsScientific American Emergency Medicine; Manual of Emergency Airway Management (Editor-in-Chief)
Leadership positions in professional societiesPrograms Subcommittee Chair for the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine–Residency and Fellowship Fair