On the basis of experiences with more than 500 catherizations of the subclavian vein, which were performed partly infraclavicularly, partly supraclavicularly, the two methods were critically estimated and compared with regard to their effectivity and complications. The range of indications is enlarged from the access through the veins for taking blood samples and the infusion therapy over the measurement of the central venous blood pressure to the floating catheterization, temporary external pacemaker stimulation and emergency dialysis. The mastering of the two techniques of puncture provides a high measure of security for the emergency case. On the assumption of an approach secundum artem and knowing and taking into consideration the possibilities of complication, which are particularly referred to, the two ways seem to be approximately of the same value.