[Ultrasound techniques in anesthesiology--guided vascular access using sonography]

In anaesthetic practise ultrasound can facilitate cannulation of veins and arteries not only in adults but also in children. It is the main advantage and safety feature of this technique, that the targeted vessels and the surrounding anatomical structures are visualized and that the needle is advanced under continuous observation. Moreover, its systematic use can reduce the rate of unsuccessful cannulation attempts, which can be caused by anatomical variations or thrombi, occluding the targeted vessel. Ultrasound guided vascular cannulation can decrease complication rates and might improve patients safety e.g. by avoiding puncture of the carotid artery. However, in order to pass on these potential benefits to the patient and justify the increased expenses related to the purchasing of preferably portable ultrasound systems, it is mandatory to offer an appropriate ultrasound training programs for physicians using this technique.