Impact of sex, age and BMI on depth and diameter of the infraclavicular axillary vein when measured by ultrasonography

Subclavian and axillary vessel anatomy: a prospective observational ultrasound study

“…Not surprisingly, we observed that the depth of the axillary vein correlates with the BMI, as previously described by Kim et al 11 Female patients had a smaller vein area, and age also influenced venous depth and area. Despite these associations, we were unable to obtain a model that could predict the dimension and position of the axillary vessels.…”

“…In studies evaluating USguided subclavian vein puncture, vein anatomical anomalies were observed in 2-27% of the cases. 3,[10][11][12] Nevertheless, detailed descriptions of these specific arteriovenous anomalies are lacking. Also, our observations partly explain the reported difficulties in using this approach to the central venous system.…”

“…In addition, the vein is also further away from the lung pleura, which might decrease the occurrence of pneumothorax. On the other hand, at this site, the brachial plexus surrounds the artery 10,11 and could be injured, as it is the same site used for infraclavicular nerve block.…”

“…Thus far, few studies have explored the anatomical variations encountered using US-guided subclavian or axillary vessel cannulation. 10,11 In addition, descriptions are lacking regarding the relationship between cardiac filling pressures and the anatomical dimensions of the axillary and subclavian vessels, although descriptions do exist regarding the internal jugular vein. 12 In this prospective observational study, we examined the anatomical characteristics of the subclavian and axillary vessels in patients undergoing surgical intervention requiring central venous cannulation.…”

Vascular access: the impact of ultrasonography

“…However, special attention should be given to identify and avoid injuries to small arterial branches from axillar artery that cross the vein superficially. (17) Other important point to be highlight is that the greater the body mass index of the individual the bigger the depth of axillar veins, (18) which lead to difficulties in the procedure. Figure 5 shows the final positioning and punctured site of a central venous line inserted by puncture of right axillar vein with the support of longitudinal ultrasound view of the vein.…”