J Korean Radiol Soc.
1994 Nov;31(5):847-850.
Ultrasound-Guided Subclavian Vein Catheterization
Abstract
- PURPOSE
To assess the usefulness of the ultrasound-guided subclavian vein catheterization in difficult
patients.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We tried subclavian vein catheterization in 18 patients in which conventional blind
technique failed(N=9) :or was complicated by hemothorax or pneumothorax(N=3) :or was prohibited by
respirator care(N=4) and severe thoracic deformity(N=2). Initially, the patency of subclavian vein was evaluated with
ultrasonography, and then, the puncture of the subclavian vein was performed under the guidance of
ultrasonography. Under the fluoroscopy, the patency of the proximal subclavian vein and the superior vena
cava was evaluated after contrast-media injection and a catheter was inserted into the subclavian vein and
accurately positioned at the superior vena cava.
RESULTS
Successful catheterization was performed in 17 patients. In the remaining one patient, we did not
perform catheterization because of bilateral subclavian vein thrombosis detected during the procedure. There
were no procedure-related complications.
CONCLUSION
Ultrasound-guided subclavian vein catheterization is an easy and safe method even in difficult
cases.