Internal jugular vein valves complicating central venous catheter placement: a case report

Placement of central venous catheters in the internal jugular vein is a frequently performed procedure. We present the case of a patient with venous valves causing an unexpected anatomic hindrance in the placement of a central venous catheter in the internal jugular vein. Venous valves are common in the internal jugular vein and can hinder cannulation. Ultrasound can be of use in the proper placement of a central venous line in a patient where cannulation is complicated by venous valves.