Accidental tracheal tube cuff puncture during attempted internal jugular vein cannulation. Concerns and recommendations

ABSTRACT

Several techniques have been described for percutaneous internal jugular vein catheterization. Some of them are associated with complications, such as tracheal tube cuff puncture. We describe two cases of this rare but potential devastating complication, after which our patients recovered uneventfully. Despite these unfortunate accidents, we recommend the mentioned technique, but with some consideration. We propose measures concerning angles and directions of needles, as useful aids for further use of this cannulation technique.