[Ultrasound-guided cannulation of the brachiocephalic vein in neonates and infants]

Introduction: Central venous catheter (CVC) insertion in neonates and small infants is a challenging and high risk procedure. Ultrasound (US) guided cannulation increases the success rate and reduces procedural-related complications. The internal jugular vein is the most frequent site for US-guided CVC insertion. However this approach is technically demanding in neonates and small infants. US-guided supraclavicular cannulation of the brachiocephalic vein (BCV) is a new approach that may be advantageous in case of difficult central venous catheterization. We present our preliminary experience with this technique in a case series of neonates and small infants.

Methods: Case series of neonates and small infants weighing less than 5kg, in whom US-guided supraclavicular cannulation of the BCV was attempted. A longitudinal "in plane" supraclavicular approach to the BCV was performed using a 12Hz linear or a 8Hz microconvex transducer. All cannulations were performed by the same operator, a pediatrician with previous experience in US-guided central venous catheterization.

Results: The study included 6 patients with a median (range) weight of 2.1 (0.94-4.1) kg and age of 1.9 (0.6-4) months. Two cases required 2 punctures, while cannulation was achieved at the first attempt in the remaining 4 cases. There were no procedural or catheter-related complications. CVCs were withdrawn after 9 (6-15) days.

Conclusions: The US-guided supraclavicular approach to the BCV is a feasible and safe alternative in neonates and very small infants. More studies are needed to define the role of this new venous access before its routine application in daily practice.