Sun17October0936AM 8

Which of the following structures is most likely to be damaged while cannulating the subclavian vein?

(Please select 1 option)

Phrenic nerve

Pleura Incorrect answer selected

Ansa cervicalis

Subclavian artery This is the correct answer

Anterior ramus of first thoracic nerve

Explanation

The subclavian artery lies posterior to and partly above the subclavian vein and may be inadvertently cannulated in an attempt to cannulate the subclavian vein (3-4%).

This may be of serious consequence, as it is not possible to put pressure on the subclavian artery to arrest bleeding, given its anatomical position.

The apical pleura is inferior and caudal to the subclavian vein. Pleural puncture causing a pneumothorax is a recognised consequence of subclavian vein cannulation (1%).

Answer Statistics

1

2%

2

48%

3

1%

4

49%

5

2%

Times answered: 226