A new method of internal jugular vein catheterization using the cricoid cartilage and the external jugular vein as a landmark

Purpose: The aim of this study was to find a new external landmark for internal jugular vein (IJV) catheterization. Methods: The locations of the right IJVs of 100 patients were examined by ultrasonography using the external jugular vein and the cricoid cartilage as landmarks, and in a clinical study, we catheterized the right IJVs of 100 patients using these landmarks. Results: By ultrasonography, the average distance from point A (a point 1.5 cm medial from the external jugular vein at the cricoid cartilage level) to the midpoint of the right IJV was 0.35 ± 0.61 cm, and by clinical study, catheterization of the right IJV was successful in 99% (99/100) of patients. Patients required an average of 1.75 ± 0.75 attempts, and no carotid puncture occurred. Conclusions: This new method of IJV catheterization was found to have a high success rate and few complications.