RESUMEN
Background: Catheterization of Internal Jugular Vein (IJV) is commonly attempted to obtain central venous access for hemodynamic monitoring, long term administration of fluids, total parenteral nutrition and hemodialysis in critical care patients. The safe puncture of the IJV is achieved by using anatomical land marks on skin surface. Ultrasound guidance could be beneficial in placing central venous catheters by improving the success rate, reducing the number of needle passes, decreasing access time and decreasing complications. Material andMethods: Sixty critical care patientswere selected for IJV cannulation either by landmark technique or by ultrasound guided technique in two groups of thirty each. Results: In our study there was 100% success rate for first attempt cannulation in USG technique and where as it was 83.3% in LMG technique. The mean access time in USG technique was 152.50 ± 63.90 sec as against 323.23 ± 146.19 sec in LMG group. Conclusion: Ultrasound guided technique improves the cannulation of the IJV with respect to safety, rapidity and comfort to the patient during the procedure.