Safety evaluation of ultrasound location in axillary venipuncture

Objective To explore the success rate and safety of axillary venipuncture catheterization with ultrasound localization and homologous surface localization (Magney). Method A total of 80 patients were enrolled in the EICU from January 2017 to September 2018. They were randomly assigned to the Magney method (n=35) and the ultrasound-guided method (n=45). The number of successful punctures, success rate and complications were recorded. Results Compared with ultrasound-guided method, the one-time success rate (25.7% vs 68.9%, P<0.01), puncture greater than 2 times (34.3% vs 11.1%, P=0.012), and total success rate (82.9% vs 100%, P=0.004) in Magney method were significantly different. Both of the two puncture methods were mis-invasive, and the difference was not statistically significant. In Magney method 2 patients occurred hematoma and 1 patient brachial plexus injury, but no infection occurred within 48 h. While no such occurrence was found in ultrasound-guided method. Conclusion Ultrasound-guided method axillary venipuncture is a safe and effective method of central venous catheterization, which has higher success rate and safety than Magney method. Key words: Axillary vein; Central vein catheterization; Ultrasound; Complications; Magney method