Failure of subclavian venepuncture: the internal jugular vein as a useful alternative

After several attempts, temporary and permanent pacing for post-infarction symptomatic tachybradyarrhythmias, was finally achieved via the left internal jugular vein. Failure of bilateral subclavian venepuncture was experienced by two different operators. Partial right-sided pneumothorax developed following several attempts of subclavian puncture, and it resolved spontaneously. Upper extremity contrast venography revealed signs compatible with antecedent thrombotic disease of unknown etiology. Antiarrhythmic drug therapy was safely and successfully instituted.