The Influence of Arm Positioning on Ultrasonic Visualization of the Subclavian Vein: An Anatomical Ultrasound Study in Healthy Volunteers. (July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sadek, Meriem; Roger, Claire; Bastide, Sophie; Jeannes, Pascal; Solecki, Kamila; de Jong, Audrey; Buzançais, Gautier; Elotmani, Loubna; Ripart, Jacques; Lefrant, Jean Yves; Bobbia, Xavier; Muller, Laurent
• Is Part Of: Anesthesia & analgesia. Volume 123:Number 1(2016)
• Publication Date: 2016-07
• Subjects: Anesthesiology -- Periodicals; Anesthesia; Anesthesiology; Analgesia; Analgesics; Anesthesiology -- Periodicals; 617.9605
• DOI: 10.1213/ANE.0000000000001327
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-2999

Abstract

Abstract : We hypothesized that placing the arm in 90° abduction, through 90° flexion and 90° external rotation, could improve ultrasound visualization of the subclavian vein. In 49 healthy volunteers, a single operator performed a view of the subclavian vein in neutral position and abduction position. A second blinded operator measured the cross-sectional area of the subclavian vein. Abduction position increased the cross-sectional area of the subclavian vein from 124 ± 46 (mean ± SD) to 162 ± 58 mm 2 ( P = 0.001). An increase of the cross-sectional area of ≥50% was observed in 41% volunteers (95% confidence interval, 27%–56%, n = 20); this technique offers an alternative approach (maybe safer) for ultrasound-guided catheterization of the subclavian vein. Abstract : Published ahead of print May 4, 2016