Most Recent Questions:
Q I am a medical doctor practicing radiology in the Los Angeles area. My adult patients require placement of peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICC line). Using local anesthesia, percutaneous needle puncture of the basilic vein in the upper arm is required. The basilic vein is typically positioned one to three centimeters deep to the skin surface and is 5 to 10 millimeters in diameter. Current vein localization technique for PICC line placement utilizes ultrasound or x-ray venography, both of which are less than optimal…. How does your VeinViewer technology compare?
- P.K.S., MD
A The VeinViewer utilizes harmless near-infrared light photons to produce a real-time image of underlying vasculature. This image allows clinicians to visualize their desired target area prior to embarking upon therapy or procedure.
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Q I recently saw the VeinViewer at the INS Trade Show in Atlanta… I noticed it did not work well on obese people [whose] veins were deeper. Will the technology provide the industry with 1-2cm depth?
- C.W., RN
A The VeinViewer technology allows penetration of photons to a depth of approximately 7-8mm. If there is vasculature containing hemoglobin within this range of depth, the VeinViewer will illuminate the vasculature.
With some very obese patients, the hemoglobin containing vasculature may reside at depths greater than those in which the VeinViewer can penetrate. With this in mind, if a clinician attempts to illuminate vasculature and receives little or no confirmation of vascularity, one must assume that the depth of the vessels are greater than the penetration capabilities of the VeinViewer.