Complications of Subclavian Vein Catheterization

Cardiac Perforation and Tamponade from a Malpositioned Subclavian Dialysis Catheter

“…Right atrial and superior caval perforations secondary to subclavian venous catheters used for monitoring and venous access have been reported previously [2,3,6,7], To our knowledge, this is the first report of a cardiac perfora tion occurring from a subclavian venous dialysis catheter. The Sorenson Teflon subclavian dialysis catheter is of larger caliper (2.7 mm OD) and stiffer than standard catheters used for central venous monitoring and access.…”

Central venous catheterization—An anatomical review of a clinical skill—Part 1: Subclavian vein via the infraclavicular approach

“…The cervical pleura is only about 5 mm directly posterior to the SCV, beyond the protective edge of the first rib (Smith et al, 1965). It is covered by the suprapleural membrane (Sibson's fascia) with surface markings from the junction of the medial and middle thirds of the clavicle to the sternoclavicular joint.…”

“…The brachial plexus lies posterior to the subclavian artery posterior to anterior scalene and both cross the first rib only 2-cm lateral to the SCV (Smith et al, 1965). Therefore, brachial plexus injuries are more common with catheterization of the SCV and are usually associated with a sub-clavian artery puncture.…”

“…openUP Smith et al (1965) reports on a case with brachial plexus injury where the injury consisted of motor function deficiencies to the shoulder, elbow, and hand as well as sensory loss to the lateral upper arm.…”

“…Smith et al (1965) reported two patients who needed a tracheostomy due to a compromised airway after SCV catheterization.…”