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"By improving operator training and selecting a standardized echography protocol, ultrasound could become the gold standard for visualizing the epicutaneo-caval catheter tip in the neonatal intensive care unit" D'Andrea et al (2023).
Ultrasound to identify epicutaneo-caval catheter tip location

Abstract:

Chest and abdominal X-rays after the insertion of an epicutaneo-caval catheter in infants are the standard method of checking the tip location in many neonatal intensive care units. The role of ultrasound in the tip location of the epicutaneo-caval catheter in neonates has been the subject of many recent studies. This systematic review investigates the accuracy of epicutaneo-caval catheter tip location by comparing ultrasound and conventional radiology. We performed a systematic literature search in multiple databases. The selection of studies yielded nineteen articles. The systematic review and meta-analysis were performed according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analysis). The analyses showed that ultrasound is a better imaging technique for epicutaneo-caval catheter tip location in the neonatal intensive care unit than conventional radiology. By improving operator training and selecting a standardized echography protocol, ultrasound could become the gold standard for visualizing the epicutaneo-caval catheter tip in the neonatal intensive care unit. This would have some important benefits: (1) increased accuracy in tip location (2); a more rapid use of the central venous access (3); and a significant reduction in radiation exposure.

Reference:

D’Andrea V, Cascini V, Russo R, Perri A, Prontera G, Ancora G, Vento G, Lisi G, Barone G. The Role of Ultrasound in Epicutaneo-Caval Catheter Insertion in Neonates: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis and Future Perspectives. Diagnostics (Basel). 2023 Sep 3;13(17):2850. doi: 10.3390/diagnostics13172850. PMID: 37685388.

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