Application of Optimized Ultrasonic Localization System for Radial Artery Puncture by Intern Doctors: A Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND: Ultrasound with developing line may by suitable for medical personnel who are inexperienced in the use of ultrasound-guided radial artery puncture. In this trial, we assessed whether this technology could increase the success rate of radial artery puncture performed by interns. MATERIAL/METHODS: Seventy-seven patients undergoing general anesthesia were enrolled and randomly divided into 2 groups: an ultrasound with developing line group and a traditional ultrasound group. All radial artery punctures were performed by interns who received theoretical explanation (including video demonstration of puncture) and on-site guidance puncture once. The primary end-point was the success rate of cannulation at the first attempt and the secondary end-point was cannulation failure rate. RESULTS: The success rate of cannulation at the first attempt in ultrasound in the developing line group was significantly higher than that in the traditional ultrasound group (proportion difference: 34.21%, 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.5483 to −0.1334; P=0.0025). However, no significant between-group difference was observed with respect to failure rate (mean difference 95% CI, (−0.0084 to 0.2743; P=0.0866). The ultrasonic location time in the ultrasound with developing line group was significantly lower than that in the traditional ultrasound group (mean difference −12.4 seconds, 95% CI, 10.64 to 13.98 s; P<0.0000). CONCLUSIONS: Use of ultrasound with developing line significantly improved the success rate of radial artery puncture performed by interns as compared to that with use of traditional dynamic ultrasound guidance technology.