Central Line Anatomy
Internal Jugular Vein Catheterization
The internal jugular vein is located in the triangle formed by the two heads of the sternocleidomastoid muscle and clavicle in the anterior neck (Fig. 40-1). Cannulation of the right internal jugular vein is preferred to the left vein because the right provides more direct access to the right atrium, avoids the thoracic duct, and is associated with fewer complications. The ultrasound probe is placed to position the vein in the center of the image. The surgeon differentiates the internal jugular vein from the carotid artery by noting that the vein compresses with gentle pressure.
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