Comparison of two techniques of central venous cannulation of subclavian vein using ultrasound was performed. ultrasound guided central venous cannulation is the standard practice today but its use in subclavian vein is technically challenging and not much literature is available. In this study 96 Patients were randomized into one of the groups and compared for various outcomes. The primary outcome studied was the time taken for procedure. Secondary objectives included comparison of total access time using both the techniques,comparison of first attempt success rate, comparison of the quality of needle visualization and the comparison of immediate (mechanical) and delayed complication rates.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy adults requiring central venous cannulation.

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of prior catheterization.
• Limited sites for access attempts (other catheters, pacemaker, prior surgery).
• Previous difficulties during catheterization such as more than three punctures at one site, two sites attempted or failure to gain access.
• Previous mechanical complications during catheterization.
• Patients with infection at puncture site and contralateral pneumothorax.
• Patients with trauma to clavicle and upper ribs, distorted anatomy of neck or clavicles.
• Cervical spine injury.
• Known vascular abnormality.
• Untreated coagulopathy such as International Normalization Ratio(INR) ≥ 2, activated partial thromboplastin time >1.5 of normal or platelets <50,000/mm3
• After 3 attempts at needle puncture.