An estimation of right- and left-sided central venous catheter insertion depth using measurement of surface landmarks along the course of central veins.

Background: In this study we sought to determine whether the topographical measurement along the course of the central veins can estimate the approximate insertion depths of central venous catheters (CVC).

Methods: Two hundred central venous catheterizations were performed via the right and left internal jugular vein (IJV) or subclavian vein (SCV). The anterior approach, using the sternocleidomastoid muscle as a landmark, was used for IJV catheterization and the infraclavicular approach for SCV.

The effect of forced-air warming during arthroscopic shoulder surgery with general anesthesia.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the change in body temperature between the cotton blanket group and forced-air warming blanket group during arthroscopic shoulder surgery. In both groups irrigation fluid at room temperature (22 degrees C) was used.

Methods: We randomly assigned 44 American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I and II patients scheduled for elective shoulder arthroscopic surgery to receive 1 cotton blanket (group I, n = 22) or a forced-air warming blanket (group II, n = 22).