Because of the pleural complications of the subclavian route, several teams now prefer using the internal jugular vein (IJV) to cannulate the superior vena cava. Their recently published technics and encouraging results are briefly reviewed. Indications, patient preparation and position, and cannulation are similar to those with the subclavian technic. The 17 published methods of puncture can be grouped into three approaches in relation to the sternocleidomastoid muscle: anterior, posterior, and central. While the rate of successful cannulation of the IJV is high, it is slightly inferior to that of the subclavian vein, especially in obese patients and those with short, thick necks. Pleural puncture, though not impossible, is easily avoided; this, and the low rate of malpositioning of IJV catheters, are the main advantages of the IJV over the subclavian route. Except for readily observed and easily treated benign neck hematomas, complications, including infections and thromboses, have been rare.