Ultrasonographic study of anatomical characteristics of internal jugular vein in relation to common carotid artery

Abstract

Context: Cannulation of internal jugular vein (IJV) by using the anatomical landmarks is associated with a significant complication rate of up to 15%. Aim: The aim of our study was to determine the anatomical characteristics of IJV in relation to common carotid artery (CCA) using ultrasonography (USG). Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study was carried out in a tertiary care teaching hospital. A total of 120 healthy volunteers aged between 20 and 60 years were enrolled in our study. The subjects were placed in the supine position with 15° trendelenberg tilt and neck rotated 30° to the contralateral side. Ultrasound probe was placed at the apex of the clavicle-sternocleidomastoid triangle. Location of IJV was recorded as lateral, anterolateral, anterior, anteromedial, medial and posterolateral, posteromedial and posterior. Diameter and depth of IJV was recorded. Any position other than lateral and anterolateral was defined as dangerous position. Maximum diameter of IJV ≤7 mm was defined as small sized. Statistical Analysis Used: Data was analyzed using GraphPad prism software 6.03 (GraphPad software, Inc. USA). P Results: The most common position of IJV in relation to CCA was anterolateral; 81.66% on the right side and 78.33% on the left side. Dangerous position of IJV was found in 13.33% on the right side and 15% on the left side. Mean transverse diameter of IJV was 13.2 (3.1) mm on the right side and 10.4 (2.9) mm on the left side of neck (P Conclusion: Due to the anatomical variations found in a significant number of the population, we recommend using USG for IJV cannulation.