title: An assessment of an alternative method of internal jugular vein catheterisation.
abstract: This study assessed a tried, but previously unpublished, method of internal jugular vein cannulation in 50 patients scheduled for elective cardiac surgery. The method involves using two landmarks: the larynx (thyroid and cricoid cartilages) together with the carotid artery (if it is palpable). The cricoid and thyroid cartilages were readily identifiable in 48 (96%) patients. The carotid artery was palpable in 45 (90%) patients, although some difficulty in palpation was recorded in 24 (48%) patients. There was a 98% success rate of venous cannulation. In 90% of cases the 21 gauge seeker needle entered the vein on the first or second attempt, and in 82% of cases the subsequent 18 gauge introducing needle entered the vein on the first attempt.
authors: Department of Anaesthesia, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff.
authors: I P
authors: IP
authors: Latto
authors: J A
authors: JA
authors: Hughes
authors: R J
authors: RJ
authors: Falconer
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002339:Carotid Arteries; D002406:Catheterization, Peripheral / Q000379:methods*; D003413:Cricoid Cartilage; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007601:Jugular Veins; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013957:Thyroid Cartilage