Catheter Tip Position and Contrast Distribution Following Paravertebral Catheter Insertion: a CT Study

The effectiveness of a continuous thoracic paravertebral block depends on optimal catheter tip placement and adequate distribution of local anesthetic. This study evaluated the relation between the catheter insertion depth and the final anatomical position of the catheter tip. Additionally, contrast distribution patterns were assessed for catheter tips residing within the thoracic paravertebral space. Ultrasound-guided paravertebral catheters were inserted at multiple catheter insertion depths beyond the needle tip in 31 patients undergoing breast surgery. Post-mobilization computed tomography (CT) imaging was used to determine the catheter tip location. Catheter tips with a confirmed position in the paravertebral space were further analyzed for contrast distribution.