A safe technique for the insertion of Hickman catheter into the internal jugular vein.

A modified technique of inserting a Hickman catheter into the internal jugular vein is described. Instead of using a purse string suture, this technique involves the complete isolation of a short segment of the internal jugular vein and the application of bulldog vascular clamps above and below the site of venotomy. By such modification, the risk of intraoperative bleeding and air embolism is reduced, unilateral advancement of the catheter into the superior vena cava is ensured and the caliber of the vein is not narrowed.