Emergency medicine Australasia : EMA
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Emerg Med Australas · Feb 2024
ReviewReview article: Feasibility of brachiocephalic vein central venous access for the resuscitation of shocked adult trauma patients: A literature review.
Venous access is a key component of managing haemorrhagic shock. Obtaining intravenous access in trauma patients is challenging due to circulatory collapse in shock. This literature review examines the feasibility of direct puncture and cannulation of the brachiocephalic veins (BCVs) for intravenous access in shocked adult trauma patients. ⋯ The BCVs appear to be stabilised in shock by surrounding bony structures. The BCVs may provide a site for initial, rapid access in trauma resuscitation. Further research is required to determine if the BCVs collapse in shock and if venous access using the BCVs is feasible in a trauma resuscitation setting.