Ultrasound-guided puncture of the subclavian vein

The localisation of arteries or veins is facilitated by the use of an ultrasound Doppler unit. This method has proved particularly valuable when dealing with deep lying vessels which are neither visible nor palpable. Until recently, such vessels had to be punctured blindly. This technique employs the Doppler ultrasound-method, which is especially used in the diagnosis of diseases of the peripheral vessels. These also are not only useful for the localisation but also to assist the puncture of the vessel.