Misplacement of central venous catheter into the left internal mammary vein

Abstract

Central venous catheter insertion is a commonly performed procedure in anaesthesia and critical care in order to assist fluid management and to allow administration of intravenous medications. Central venous catheter misplacement can occur, even in expert hands, despite the widespread use of ultrasound guidance. In this case report, we describe central venous catheter misplacement into the left internal mammary vein and subsequent patient management.