EBME Forums Forums Maintenance Technical Assistance Vascular Access Ultrasound

Dear All
We are looking at ultrasound units for vasular access re. the NICE guidance. I would welcome any feedback on the makes/models are you using.
Thanks
Bob..

We use the Sonosite iLook 25. PaSA has a model configured for this particular application on its framework agreement. Last time we bought one it cost about £9K

Also it's a generic portable U/S unit so can be used for other applications if you have the right probe.

dear bioman,
this sonolite i look ,which manufacturer,any other manufacturer ? anyone knows ,please inform.

ashoke

Sonosite is the manufacturer and iLook 25 is the model. I think they are an American company.

Any generic ultrasound can be used for catheter placement as long as you have an appropriate probe. Therefore if you have a machine already you just need the right probe, which you may already have so no additional cost.

The iLook is ideal for dep/wards who want to use this technique but don't have an existing U/S machine as it is reasonable priced for a ultrasound. There are other cheap options but they have screens which are small and poor quality.

Sonosite Ltd., Alexander House, 40A Wilbury Way, Hitchin, Herts. SG4 0AP
Tel: 44 (0)1462 444801
Fax: 44 (0)1462 444801

Very helpful company - good equipment.

How about the vascular doppler units..?
For example from Nicolet vascular?

These will be much economical than the iLook full ultrasound units.
The only difference, these are non imaging...

The whole point is the imaging aspect I think.

Some vascular doppler only have sound so would not be good for catheter placement. The idea of using U/S for catheter placement is so that you can see that it has gone down the right way and hence why NICE are advising this technique as opposed to the traditional landmark technique i.e. lets insert for about 10cm and turn right, doing the landmark technique runs the risk of the catheter ending up in the wrong place.

We have used the Siterite from Jade medical for many years with very few problems. Its a nice old fashioned mechanical sector scanner and gives a very clear image for catheter placement.

You could also try the Mindray DP-6600 with a 5-10MHz linear array probe. Simple to use and inexpensive at around £5k + VAT

You can contact me at www.caiysideimaging.co.uk for more information if you want.