Evaluating virtual reality anatomy training for novice anesthesiologists in performing ultrasound-guided brachial plexus blocks: a pilot study.

Background: Developing proficiency in ultrasound-guided nerve block (UGNB) demands an intricate understanding of cross-sectional anatomy as well as spatial reasoning, which is a big challenge for beginners. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the feasibility of virtual reality (VR)-facilitated anatomy education in the first performance of ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus blockade among novice anesthesiologists. We carried out pilot testing of this hypothesis using a prospective, single blind, randomized controlled trial.

Anatomic variations of neck vessels and the course of pediatric internal jugular veins.

Background: Landmark-guided internal jugular vein cannulation is difficult for pediatric patients but useful, especially when ultrasound equipment is unavailable. Therefore, it is important to define the adjacent anatomic characteristics of the pediatric internal jugular vein.

Methods: In 210 children the course of the internal jugular vein, and common carotid and vertebral arteries was measured from the level of the cricoid cartilage to the supraclavicular area using ultrasound.