CT validation of SVC-RA junction location for pediatric central line placement: is vertebral bodies below the carina accurate?

The key landmark for tip position of a central venous catheter (CVC) is the SVC-RA junction. In adults, localization of the SVC-RA junction may be assessed as a function of vertebral body units (VBU) below the carina during CVC placement. We investigated the relationship between the SVC-RA junction and the carina in children. 584 CT scans of 0–18 years were analyzed. The carina was marked automatically by software while the SVC-RA junction and...