To describe the experience with ultrasound-guided insertion of peripheral venous lines in patients in whom the “blindly” performed insertion procedure had failed.

Prospective descriptive study.

In patients in whom after two attempts, an experienced physician had not succeeded in getting peripheral venous access, ultrasound-guided insertion of a peripheral venous line was attempted. This procedure was performed by three physicians, all experienced in ultrasound-guided procedures.

From July 1st-October 1st 2007, 30 patients were included. In 24 patients, ultrasound-guided peripheral venous access was obtained at the first attempt. Two attempts were necessary in the remaining patients. In one patient the caliber of the veins in the arm was considered too narrow and venous access was obtained on the dorsum of the foot. No complications occurred. All intravenous lines functioned properly.

Ultrasound-guided placement of a peripheral venous line is a simple and safe method, the use of which can make more invasive methods of obtaining venous access unnecessary.