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.