A Restraint and Transillumination Device for Neonatal Arterial/Venipuncture: Efficacy and Thermal Safety

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Abstract
The hazard of iatrogenic 2nd-degree burn caused by a transilluminator was recently emphasized. Fiberoptic transillumination or use of the Chun-Gun have become essentially routine in neonatal units for diagnosis of pneumothorax or pneumomediastinum, for venipuncture and for aid in arterial puncture and cannulation. Extensive evaluation of radiant energy output necessitating filtration to prevent heat buildup and possible burns was emphasized. Recommendations and cautions were suggested by McArtor and Saunders to prevent thermal burns. The thermal evaluation of an alternative method using an air-gap technique with reflected light which permits a prolonged time period of transillumination without thermal risk for arterial or venipuncture of the forearm or hand is presented.