A modification of the supraclavicular approach to the central circulation

Traditional anterior or posterior triangle approaches to the central circulation may be at times unsuccessful in the patient whose anatomy makes cannulation difficult. We used a supraclavicular approach to cannulation of the central circulation in 100 patients for intraoperative monitoring or insertion of renal dialysis catheters. We have had only two failures, both in patients for dialysis catheter placement, and no complications. Review of the literature reveals a similar history of success with variations of this approach. The supraclavicular approach is an easy cannulation technique for the inexperienced physician and a useful alternative to traditional approaches for the experienced physician.