Which Procedures Commonly Use Ultrasound Guidance in Pediatrics?
Several procedures benefit from ultrasound guidance in pediatric care:
- Central Venous Access: Ultrasound guidance is often used to insert central venous catheters, allowing visualization of veins and reducing the risk of complications. - Lumbar Puncture: In situations where anatomical landmarks are not easily palpable, ultrasound can guide the needle placement. - Joint Injections and Aspirations: Ultrasound helps improve accuracy in accessing joints, particularly in conditions like juvenile idiopathic arthritis. - Biopsies: Ultrasound guidance allows for precise targeting of tissues during needle biopsies, which is essential for accurate diagnosis. - Abscess Drainage: Ultrasound can help locate and guide the drainage of abscesses, minimizing discomfort and improving outcomes.