Prevention of posterior wall puncture with a self-made needle block

J Vasc Access. 2022 Jul;23(4):606-609. doi: 10.1177/11297298211003748. Epub 2021 Mar 22.

Abstract

Vascular access is one of the most commonly performed invasive procedures in medicine. Ultrasound-guided vascular access has been shown to improve patient safety, decrease associated complications and increase first attempt success rates, however, the risk for a posterior venous wall puncture (PVWP) still exists. To reduce this complication, needle guides have been used, though, current methods have limited accessibility and generalizability. Thus, the aim of this article is to describe how a self-made needle block constructed with materials present in a central line kit can reduce the incidence of PVWP and its associated complications in novice POCUS users.

Keywords: POCUS; posterior wall puncture; ultrasound; vascular access.

MeSH terms

  • Catheterization, Central Venous* / adverse effects
  • Catheterization, Central Venous* / methods
  • Humans
  • Needles
  • Punctures
  • Ultrasonography, Interventional / methods
  • Vascular System Injuries*
  • Veins