Ultrasound Guidance Provides Easier Femoral Access, Reduces Complications Vs. Fluoroscopy

Compared with fluoroscopy, real-time ultrasound imaging facilitates catheter insertion and reduces the risk of complications for patients undergoing coronary or peripheral procedures via femoral artery access. But ultrasound guidance only improves the chances of successful cannulation in patients with bifurcations occurring over the femoral head, according to a study published in the July 2010 issue of JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions.