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

This CT-based study validates using vertebral body units below the carina to locate the SVC-RA junction for pediatric central line placement. Analysis of 584 pediatric CT scans shows an average distance of 1.48 VBU works across all ages 0-18 years, providing a practical landmark for optimal catheter tip positioning.