The use of ultrasound to identify veins for peripheral venous access in morbidly obese patients.

INTRODUCTION Peripheral intravenous access (PIA) is a necessity in the treatment and monitoring of the majority of hospitalised patients. Patients with an increased body mass index (BMI) more often than normal-weight patients have a difficult PIA. Identifying veins with ultrasonography has proven helpful when facing a difficult intravenous (IV) access. We hypothesise that, with the help of ultrasonography (US), it is possible to identify at least one vein suitable for IV access in morbidly obese patients (BMI > 40 kg/m(2)). METHODS We included 55 morbidly obese patients with a BMI > 40 kg/m(2). We performed a detailed US of seven anatomic areas routinely used for PIA. We present a description of parameters that are relevant when attempting PIA. RESULTS In our study group, all patients had a minimum of one peripheral vein that was suitable for peripheral venous access, including seven patients (12.7%) who did not have clinically detectable veins. CONCLUSIONS With the aid of US it is possible to identify a minimum of one peripheral vein suitable for IV access in morbidly obese patients. FUNDING none. TRIAL REGISTRATION not relevant.