Ultrasound-guided arterial catheterization.

Ultrasonography facilitates arterial catheterization compared to traditional palpation techniques, especially in small arteries. For successful catheterization without complications, practitioners should be familiar with the anatomic characteristics of the artery and ultrasound-guided techniques. There are two approaches for ultrasound-guided arterial catheterization: the short-axis view out-of-plane approach and the long-axis view in-plane approach. There are several modified techniques and tips to facilitate ultrasound-guided arterial catheterization. This review deals with the anatomy relevant to arterial catheterization, several methods to improve success rates, and decrease complications associated with arterial catheterization.