Efficacy and safety of supraclavicular versus infraclavicular approach for subclavian vein catheterisation: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Subclavian vein catheterisation (SVC) is more effective than internal jugular or femoral catheterisation and is linked to a lesser incidence of infection and patient discomfort. Whether the supraclavicular (SC) or infraclavicular (IC) approach is more effective for SVC is unclear in the previous systematic review. This updated review is designed to search the efficacy and safety of both approaches adopting the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. METHODS: In May 2022, we explored the databases of Embase, MEDLINE, CENTRAL, ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO-ICTRP for randomised controlled trials to compare the two approaches. RESULTS: Seventeen trials (2482 cases) were included. In the primary outcomes, the SC approach likely reduces the failure proportion (relative risk [RR], 0.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.47–0.86; I(2) = 5%) and the incidence of malposition (RR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.13–0.39; I(2) = 0%) with moderate evidence and may slightly reduce the incidence of arterial puncture and pneumothorax (RR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.29–1.22; I(2) = 0%) with low evidence. In the secondary outcomes, the SC approach may decrease the access time and may increase the first-attempt success proportion. CONCLUSION: The SC approach for SVC should be selected after considering the clinician’s expertise.