Supraclavicular Catheterization of the Superior Vena Cava

In seeking to develop a simple and safe technique of central vein catheterization, a supraclavicular route to the superior vena cava was chosen. Advancing from a point above the medial portion of the clavicle, the needle punctures the wall at the confluence of the subclavian and internal jugular veins, and a siliconized catheter is introduced straight into the superior vena cava. The technique is described in detail. The results of 600 catheterizations are reported. Unsuccessful attempts at cannulation were recorded in 6.3%, malposition of the tip of the catheter in 1.7%, pneumothorax in 0.3% and other complications in altogether 3.3% of the cases. Attention is drawn to the potential dangers inherent in cannulation of major central veins. The supraclavicular route described seems to provide a straightforward, reproducible approach to the superior vena cava, and it seems to have a low incidence of technical failures and early and late complications.