Assessment of internal diameter and cross-sectional area of right internal jugular vein pre-induction and post-intubation

Abstract

This prospective observational study compared the internal diameter and cross-sectional area of the right internal jugular vein pre-induction and post-initiation of positive pressure ventilation. Twenty patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery were studied. Measurements were taken with the operating table tipped to 30° head down and the head turned 10° away from the side of cannulation. There was a statistically significant increase in both measurements post-intubation. This study suggests that it may be easier and safer to perform cannulation of RIJV after institution of intermittent positive pressure ventilation inpatients in the modified Trendelenburg position.