Comparison of dynamic needle tip positioning versus conventional long-axis in-plane techniques for ultrasound-guided internal jugular venous catheterization: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

Continuous visualization of the needle tip is essential for successful ultrasound-guided central venous catheterization, and the dynamic needle tip positioning (DNTP) technique enables it. The aim of this randomized, dual-center trial was to compare the first-attempt success rate of ultrasound-guided internal jugular catheterization between the DNTP and conventional long-axis in-plane (LAX-IP) techniques.

METHODS

Patients undergoing cardiac surgery at two tertiary teaching hospitals were randomly allocated to either the DNTP or LAX-IP group. Internal jugular venous catheterization was performed by four anesthesiologists. The primary outcome was the first-attempt success rate of central venous catheterization. Procedural time and complications related to catheterization were compared as secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

In total, 142 patients were analysed. The first-attempt success rate was significantly higher in the DNTP group (59/72, 81.9%) than in the LAX-IP group (46/70, 65.7%; odds ratio, 2.37; 95% confidence interval 1.09-5.15; P=0.028). In addition, the needle was redirected less frequently in the DNTP group than the LAX-IP group (P=0.026). Procedural time was comparable between the groups. No significant differences were observed in complications related to catheterization, including posterior wall puncture, carotid artery puncture, or hematoma.

CONCLUSIONS

The DNTP technique resulted in a significantly higher success rate on the first attempt at internal jugular venous catheterization and required less frequent redirection of the needle during the procedure than the conventional LAX-IP technique.