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New biomedical devices that use near-infrared technology to assist with phlebotomy and vascular access
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas-Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
Insights
Near-infrared imaging devices help place IVs in children. This review examines the technology and its effectiveness in pediatric emergency care.
Area of Science:
- Medical technology
- Pediatric emergency medicine
- Vascular access
Background:
- Intravenous (IV) access in children presents significant challenges.
- Near-infrared (NIR) imaging technology offers a potential solution for venous access.
- NIR devices are commercially available for facilitating IV catheterization and phlebotomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the technology behind NIR imaging for venous access.
- To evaluate the evidence supporting NIR imaging in pediatric emergency settings.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of NIR imaging technology.
- Analysis of studies on NIR device efficacy in pediatric populations.
Main Results:
- NIR imaging visualizes subcutaneous veins by detecting hemoglobin absorption.
- Evidence suggests NIR devices can improve first-attempt success rates for IV placement in children.
- Further research is needed to fully establish long-term benefits and optimal use cases.
Conclusions:
- NIR imaging is a promising technology for improving IV access in pediatric patients.
- Its application in emergency settings warrants continued investigation and validation.
- Optimizing the use of NIR devices can enhance patient care and reduce procedural difficulties.
Abstract:
Obtaining intravenous access in children is often challenging. Devices using the novel technology of near-infrared imaging have been developed and marketed to facilitate intravenous catheter placement and phlebotomy. We review the technology of near-infrared imaging and the evidence for its use in the pediatric emergency population.
