Optimization of Cannula Visibility during Ultrasound-Guided Subclavian Vein Catheterization, via a Longitudinal Approach, by Implementing Echogenic Technology

Table 1

Baseline characteristics of the study population; values are presented either in percentages or as mean ± SD.

Characteristics	EC group (𝑛=40)	NEC group (𝑛=40)
Age (years)	50±10.5	51±9.9
Gender (male/female ratio)	0.51±0.4	0.52±0.5
APACHE II score	20.2±3.1	20.3±3.3
Diagnosis upon admission
Trauma without brain injury	5 (12.5%)	7 (17.5%)
Trauma with brain injury	15 (37.5%)	11 (27.5%)
Burn	2 (5%)	3 (7.5%)
ARDS	3 (7.5%)	5 (12.5%)
Sepsis	5 (12.5%)	7 (17.5%)
Postsurgical complications	10 (25%)	7 (17.5%)
Side of catheterization (left/right)	19/21	18/22
Body mass index (kg/m^2)	22.9±5.1	23.8±4.2
Prior catheterization	10 (25%)	10 (25%)
Limited sites for access attempts	3 (7.5%)	3 (7.5%)
Previous difficulties during	5 (12.5%)	5 (12.5%)
Catheterization
Previous mechanical complications	2 (5%)	2 (5%)
Known vascular abnormality	1 (2.5%)	1 (2.5%)
Untreated coagulopathy	0 (0%)	1 (2.5%)
Skeletal deformity	1 (2.5%)	0 (0%)

APACHE II score: acute physiology and chronic health evaluation score II; ARDS: acute respiratory distress syndrome; NEC: nonechogenic cannula, EC: echogenic cannula.