External jugular vein access to the central venous system - a trial of two types of catheter

The central placement rate of central venous catheters inserted via the external jugular veins was assessed using two different types of catheter. In 50 patients a catheter-through-cannula design was used, in 50 a catheter-through-needle design; central placement rates were 72% and 60% respectively. Complications were few and never serious. The catheter-through-cannula design is recommended.