Central venous access via the external jugular vein in cardiovascular surgery

In 115 consecutive adult patients scheduled for cardiovascular surgery, 150 catheterizations of the innominate or superior caval veins via an external jugular vein were attempted. The Seldinger technique was employed. In 99 (96-100)% of the attempts a straight, J-modified straight or a J-wire could be passed into the central venous system. One hundred and forty-six (97 (93-99)% of the subsequent catheter insertions were successful. Thirty-five patients had bilateral catheter insertions. Both sides proved to be equally suitable. Six anesthetists participated in the study and the longest catheterization time was 16 min. All catheterization procedures were uncomplicated.