objective To compare the advantages and disa d vantages of epistatic subclavian vein catheterization (ESVC) with that of internal jugular vein catheterization (IJVC) in hemodialysis. Methods Sixty-eight ESVC and 30 IJVC were performed in 98 hemodialysis patients rate of puncture success, catheterization time, the cath eters' survival life, complications, blood flow and Kt/V were observed retro spectively. Results Rate of puncture success of ESVC was significantly higher than that of IJVC(94.1% vs 80%respectively P＜0.05)and catheterization time of ESVC was shorter obviously than that of IJVC (P＜0.05); The survival life of ESVC was longer significantly than that of IJVC(P＜0.0 5) and alower incidence of infection, inadequate blood flow and obstruction were also found; Kt/V of ESVC and IJVE was of no significant difference(P＞0.05). Conclusions ESVC is relatively an ideal temporary blood access for hemodialysis.