Saphenous Vein Cannulation in Infants and Small Children

Ultrasound-image Guided Versus Traditional Landmark Technique for Saphenous Vein Cannulation in Infants and Small Children

The purpose of this study is to compare the two different saphenous vein cannulation techniques; real-time ultrasound image-guided technique (Ultrasound group) vs. traditional landmark technique (Landmark group).

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Pediatric patient undergoing scheduled surgery which requires venous cannulation.
2. Term neonates and children < 4 years old weighing >/= 3 kg

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patient with visible saphenous vein
2. Patient with no detectable saphenous vein under ultrasound
3. Patient with a skin wound or infection around puncture site
4. Patient with recent venous puncture at the puncture site (less than 1 month)
5. Patient with thrombus in saphenous vein or hematoma formation around the vein detected by ultrasound.
6. Patient with any emergency surgery