Application of Echogenic Technology for Catheters Used in Ultrasound‐Guided Continuous Peripheral Nerve Blocks

Abstract

Limited data exist regarding the echogenicity of perineural catheters, but visualization is crucial to ensure accurate placement and efficacy of the subsequent local anesthetic infusion. The objective of this study was to determine the comparative echogenicity of various regional anesthesia catheters. In an in vitro porcine-bovine model, we compared the echogenic qualities of 3 commercially available regional anesthesia catheters and 1 catheter under development to optimize echogenicity. Outcomes included visual echogenicity ranking, image quality, and scanning time, as assessed by 2 blinded investigators. The experimental catheter was found to be more echogenic than 2 of the 3 comparators.

Comparative Echogenicity of an Epidural Catheter and 2 New Catheters Designed for Ultrasound‐Guided Continuous Peripheral Nerve Blocks

“…The Contiplex ECHO catheter was ranked first for visibility most often, but this finding was only statistically significant when compared to the Ultra‐Kath catheter. The Ultra‐Kath catheter, which was previously found to be superior to 3 other catheters in terms of echogenicity, was least likely to be ranked first for ultrasound visibility in this study. There were no differences in specific echogenic characteristics among the 3 catheters, although reliability between reviewers was lacking for artifact and shadowing.…”

“…This study does not confirm our previous study in which the Ultra-Kath catheter performed better than 3 other catheters used in regional anesthesia. 8 In the previous study, the 3 comparators were 2 nonechogenic regional anesthesia catheters by B. Braun (Contiplex and Perifix FX) and the Arrow StimuCath (Teleflex Medical). 8 When compared to the new Contiplex ECHO, which used echogenic technology, the Ultra-Kath loses its advantage in terms of visibility.…”

“…8 In the previous study, the 3 comparators were 2 nonechogenic regional anesthesia catheters by B. Braun (Contiplex and Perifix FX) and the Arrow StimuCath (Teleflex Medical). 8 When compared to the new Contiplex ECHO, which used echogenic technology, the Ultra-Kath loses its advantage in terms of visibility. However, this disadvantage is also the case when the Ultra-Kath is compared to the older Arrow FlexTip Plus epidural catheter, which was not included in the previous study.…”

“…Fifty‐four trials allowed for 18 total scans per catheter type and stratified randomization of 9 trials balanced among the 3 catheter types per meat phantom. Investigators of a previously published study of catheter echogenicity performed 15 trials per catheter …”

“…Investigators of a previously published study of catheter echogenicity performed 15 trials per catheter. 8…”