Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 10, 2025
Author Spotlight: Evaluating Clinicians' Adoption of Ultrasound-Guided Vascular Cannulation Through Simulation Training
Published on: August 9, 2024
Peripheral Vascular Access in Infants: Is Ultrasound-Guided Cannulation More Effective than the Conventional
Cristina Casal-Guisande1, Esperanza López-Domene2, Silvia Fernández-Antorrena3
1Emergency Department, Hospital Universitario Rey Juan Carlos, 28933 Móstoles, Spain.
Insights
Ultrasound-guided vascular cannulation improves infant care by increasing first-attempt success and reducing complications compared to the blind technique. This method enhances safety and patient experience in pediatric vascular access.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Medicine
- Medical Imaging
- Vascular Access
Background:
- Peripheral vascular access in infants is challenging due to unique anatomy.
- Repeated failed attempts can lead to complications and increased stress for patients and staff.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided vascular cannulation versus the conventional technique in infants.
- To evaluate key outcomes including success rates, complications, and staff perception.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines.
- Searched PubMed for studies (2017-2025) comparing techniques in infants (<2 years).
- Evaluated first-attempt success, punctures, complications, staff perception, and training impact.
Main Results:
- Eleven studies showed ultrasound guidance achieved higher first-attempt success rates (>85%) and fewer complications.
- Benefits were more pronounced for less experienced healthcare professionals.
- Structured training improved staff perception; patient stress impact was less directly measured.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasound-guided vascular cannulation is more effective and safer than the conventional technique in infants.
- Implementation requires training and resources but can improve pediatric patient outcomes and experience.
- Recommended for complex and critical care pediatric settings.
Abstract:
Background and Objectives: Peripheral vascular access in infants is a frequent but technically challenging procedure due to the anatomical characteristics of this population. Repeated failed attempts may increase complications and emotional stress for both patients and healthcare professionals. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided peripheral vascular cannulation compared to the conventional or "blind" technique in infants. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed database was searched for studies published between 2017 and 2025. Studies comparing both techniques in infants under two years of age were selected, evaluating variables such as the number of punctures, first-attempt success, healthcare staff perception, associated stress, and the role of simulation in training. Results: Eleven studies were included, comprising clinical trials, observational studies, and training program assessments from different countries. Most reported a higher first-attempt success rate with the ultrasound-guided technique (often exceeding 85%), along with fewer punctures and complications, particularly among less-experienced professionals. Improvements in staff perception were also observed following structured training. The impact on stress experienced by patients and families was less frequently assessed directly, although some studies reported indirect benefits. Conclusions: Ultrasound-guided peripheral vascular cannulation appears to be more effective and safer than the conventional technique in infants, particularly in complex or critical care contexts. Its implementation requires specific training and appropriate resources but could significantly improve clinical outcomes and the pediatric patient experience.
