In the presence of a long stenosis or an occlusion in the axillo-subclavian venous tract, the vena jugularis interna can be useful as an outflow tract in arteriovenous shunts for haemodialysis. The use of this vein was indicated for primary shunts with vascular grafts and also for treatment of venous hypertension of the upper limb. In both these indications a 6 mm ePTFE (GORE) prosthesis was used. Regular follow-up by Doppler ultrasound was useful for diagnosis of a developing of stenosis in these shunts. With early treatment of these stenoses the long-term function of these shunts could be ensured.