Ultrasound to Detect Central Venous Catheter Placement Associated Complications A Multicenter Diagnostic Accuracy Study

Conclusions This multicenter study shows that the complication rate of central venous catheterization is low and that ultrasound produces a moderate sensitivity and high specificity to detect malposition. There is moderate agreement with chest x-ray film for pneumothorax. In conclusion, ultrasound is an accurate diagnostic modality to detect malposition and pneumothorax.Editor ’s PerspectiveWhat We Already Know about This TopicCatheter malposition and pneumothorax are known complications of central line placement. Earlier recognition of these complications can lead to reduced morbidity and mortality. Chest x-ray film is typically used to evaluate for appropriate central line positioning and potential pneumothorax.What This Article Tells Us That Is NewThis prospective multicenter diagnostic accuracy study found that ultrasound can detect central line malposition with moderate sensitivity and high specificity.This study found that there is moderate agreement between chest x-ray film and ultrasound detection of central line –related pneumothorax.
Source: Anesthesiology - Category: Anesthesiology Source Type: research