Overview of Basic Science and Anatomy

Ultrasound in emergency medicine has become a point-of-care tool, often referred to as a ‘bed-side ultrasound’. Its use enables interventions to be made which, in the case of vascular access, facilitates identification of vascular anatomy and direct visualisation and cannulation of vessels.

The aim is therefore twofold:

• To identify relevant anatomy and pathology prior to cannulation
• To use ultrasound to actually guide the process of cannulation