Which site is most commonly used for intraosseous access?

Intraosseous access is a crucial technique for emergency situations, particularly in pediatric patients when intravenous access is difficult or impossible. The most commonly used site for intraosseous access is the proximal tibia. This location is preferred for several reasons:

Firstly, the proximal tibia has a good volume of red marrow, allowing for efficient delivery of fluids and medications directly into the circulation. The site is easily accessible and provides a safe entry point that minimizes the risk of injury to surrounding structures, such as nerves and blood vessels.

Additionally, the anatomical landmarks for locating the proximal tibia are well established, making it easier for practitioners to access the site quickly, which is essential in emergency scenarios where time is critical.

While other sites like the proximal radius, femur, and distal tibia can also be used for intraosseous access, they are less commonly selected compared to the proximal tibia due to factors like the size and depth of the bone or the risk of damaging surrounding tissues. Thus, the proximal tibia remains the primary choice in clinical practice for intraosseous access in emergencies.