[Massive thrombosis caused by a Shaldon catheter for long-term hemodialysis and plasmapheresis via the vena jugularis interna].

We report two cases of thrombosis of the internal jugular vein which occurred after prolonged cannulation of the vein by a Shaldon-catheter for acute haemodialysis. In one case this complication provoked cerebral oedema and death of the patient. In the second case the thrombosis of the internal jugular vein was confirmed by autopsy and documented by photography but did not affect the fate of the patient. Yoffa's supraclavicular approach to the subclavian vein is discussed as an alternative.