Rapid Central Vein Assessment (RaCeVA): A systematic, standardized approach for ultrasound assessment before central venous catheterization

Abstract

Ultrasound technology has revolutionized the practice of safer vascular access, for both venous and arterial cannulation. The ability to visualize underlying structures of the chest, neck, and upper/lower extremities provides for greater success, speed, and safety with all vascular access procedures. Ultrasound not only yields superior procedural advantages but also provides a platform to perform a thorough assessment of the vascular structures to evaluate vessel health, viability, size, and patency, including the location of other important and best avoided anatomical structures—prior to performing any procedures. Such assessment is best performed using a systematic and standardized approach, as the Rapid Central Vein Assessment, described in this study.