SHORT COMMUNICATION - TUNNELED CENTRAL VENOUS CATHETER INSERTION VIA THE INTERNAL JUGULAR-VEIN USING A DEDICATED PORTABLE ULTRASOUND DEVICE

We describe the use of a purpose-built portable ultrasound device to a ssist puncture of the internal jugular vein during percutaneous insert ion of tunnelled central venous catheters such as Hickman lines. In ma ny situations the internal jugular route is safer, faster and less cos tly in comparison with the subclavian approach. The use of ultrasound allows an accurate initial venous puncture with fewer complications, i n the hands of both experienced operators and those less familiar with the internal jugular vein approach.