Subclavian venous acess
Ultrasound guided
Ultrasound can be used to enhance venous access to the subclavian vein. While the ultrasound-based approach is not the default standard, it can still be a great asset in many cases where the anatomy and vasculature of the upper torso is non-standard and/or where the risk of pneumothorax may itself be a substantive risk to the patient.
It is notable to highlight that access is actually through the axillary vein anatomically, as the subclavian vein cannot be seen under the clavicle with ultrasound.
The following section will highlight key steps in this process and finish with a video tutorial.