Near-Infrared Technology Enhances Peripheral Venous Access Success Rates

A new clinical trial investigates the use of near-infrared imaging technology to improve the success rates of peripheral venous access procedures. The study, sponsored by Brno University Hospital, explores the effectiveness of the VeinViewer Flex device for identifying peripheral veins during intravenous cannulation. This trial is currently recruiting participants and is relevant to healthcare providers, medical device specialists, and regulatory experts monitoring innovative medical technologies.

In this article:

What is being studied?

The study focuses on assessing the benefits of near-infrared imaging technology in increasing peripheral venous access success. More specifically, the VeinViewer Flex device is being evaluated for its role in assisting healthcare professionals to locate and cannulate peripheral veins with greater accuracy and efficiency. This device uses near-infrared light to project a real-time image of underlying veins onto the patient’s skin, providing enhanced visualization.

Why does this matter?

Peripheral venous access is essential for administering medications, fluids, or drawing blood. However, it can be challenging in patients with difficult venous access (DVA), such as those with obesity, dehydration, or chronic illness. Failure to establish access in a timely manner increases patient discomfort, procedural time, and healthcare costs. This research is relevant for clinicians seeking better ways to perform intravenous cannulations, as well as stakeholders monitoring advancements in patient care devices.

How does near-infrared imaging work?

Near-infrared imaging employs light wavelengths that are absorbed differently by blood and surrounding tissues. Devices like VeinViewer Flex capture this contrast and create a projected visual map of veins directly on the skin surface. This real-time display enhances the practitioner’s ability to identify optimal puncture sites and minimizes procedural errors. This technology is designed to reduce multiple insertion attempts and improve patient outcomes.

Application and implications

Healthcare providers using near-infrared tools may experience increased procedural efficiency, reduced patient discomfort, and improved overall satisfaction. These benefits align with current goals in quality and regulatory care to minimize procedure-associated risks. Regulatory professionals will monitor how the outcomes of this study can shape device approvals and health system adoption. The study’s results may also further genetic studies focusing on improving techniques for DVA patients.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Who is conducting this study?
    The trial is sponsored by Brno University Hospital.
  2. What is the intervention being tested?
    The use of the VeinViewer Flex device, which utilizes near-infrared imaging to enhance visualization of veins.
  3. Who will benefit from these findings?
    Healthcare professionals, patients with DVA, and regulatory bodies evaluating emerging medical technologies.
  4. Can participants enroll now?
    Yes, the clinical trial is currently recruiting volunteers.

Conclusion

This trial offers a promising step forward in leveraging near-infrared imaging technology to improve peripheral venous access success. By reducing procedural complications, the VeinViewer Flex could set a new standard in clinical practice. Healthcare providers, regulators, and medical device manufacturers should monitor the findings closely to understand their potential impact on patient care and device innovation.

Disclaimer

All information in this article is intended for regulatory, clinical, and quality professionals and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult relevant regulatory guidance or consult a specialist for compliance requirements.

Full announcement

For full information about the announcement, see the link below.
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07279701?term=medical+device