Echogenic needles versus non-echogenic needles for in-plane ultrasound-guided infraclavicular axillary vein cannulation, a randomized controlled trial

Echogenic needles improve the reflection of the ultrasound beam. The aim of the study was to compare needle performance during ultrasound-guided cannulation of the infraclavicular axillary vein with an in-plane needle approach, using echogenic needles or non-echogenic standard needles. One hundred adult patients undergoing surgical procedures that required a central venous catheter were randomized for either echogenic or non-echogenic needles. The primary outcome was access time. Secondary outcomes encompassed total procedure time, success in first attempt, number of attempts, number of skin punctures, change of site for vascular access, catheter placement, subjective experience with needle visualization and needle procedure, and adverse events. Median (IQR) [range] venous access time was 21 (15–56) [6–440] in echogenic needle group and 26 (14–91) [6–925] in the non-echogenic needle group ( p = 0.40). No statistically significant differences were found in the secondary outcome measures. One patient (non-echogenic needle group) experienced pneumothorax. In three patients in each group (6%) arterial puncture occurred. Echogenic needles did not significantly improve needle control or safety when used for infraclavicular axillary vein cannulation with an in-plane needle approach. The results indicate that standard needles are appropriate for ultrasound guided subclavian vascular access in a perioperative situation.