Superior vena cava clamping for brachiocephalic vein cannulation during heart surgery

Abstract

A new central venous catheterization during open heart surgery is seldom required. Clamping of superior vena cava (SVC) causes adequate brachiocephalic vein distension which facilitates vein puncture. In our experience, ?20 s is enough for adequate brachiocephalic vein distension. I usually prefer subclavian vein puncture by supraclavicular approach. By this approach, average superior vein clamping time is about 45 s.