Abstract
Position changes of the internal jugular vein and the common carotid artery due to inflation of a laryngeal mask cuff were observed by ultrasonography. Introduction of air into the cuff caused lateral displacement of the common carotid artery, deformation of the internal jugular venous wall and disturbed blood flow in the internal jugular vein. However, no pressure change was detected in the internal jugular vein measured on the cranial side of the cuff. Our findings show that a laryngeal mask causes little vascular congestion in the cranium, but because of vascular displacement and deformation and disturbed blood flow, care should be taken so as not to puncture the common carotid artery when jugular venous puncture is attempted.
