Potentially lethal complications of central venous catheter placement

Placement of central venous catheters, although often considered to be a relatively safe and "junior"-level procedure, may be associated with life-threatening complications.

A recent surgical death associated with placement of a central venous catheter at this Institution led to submission of a questionnaire to pediatric surgeons referenced through the American Pediatric Surgical Association directory regarding knowledge of similar incidents and information regarding catheter placement-related complications.

Results to this response, although anecdotal, provided data regarding complications of an acute nature, which fell into the categories of pneumothorax, hydrothorax, cardiac tamponade, and hemothorax. Of 10 children with cardiac tamponade, 7 were infants, and most complications were associated with needle stick for access, with symptoms developing within minutes up to 12 hours after the procedure. Drainage of the tamponade was performed by aspiration alone in 3 cases; surgical drainage in 6 children resulted in survival in 9 of the 10 patients. Hemothorax was described in 19 patients and appeared to be more common in children in the 1- to 6-year age group, usually associated with percutaneous access techniques. Thoracotomy for hemothorax was performed in 16 children with 11 survivors. Vascular injury to subclavian artery, vein, or superior vena caval were noted in most at operation.

Although data included in this review are entirely anecdotal and not subject to scientific scrutiny or analysis, certain conclusions appear evident. Inherent risks of central venous catheters are intrinsic and should be discussed with the family in obtaining preoperative consent, including life-threatening risks that may necessitate urgent surgical intervention (by thoracotomy or other means). Certain technical aspects of the procedure should be rigidly followed with an experienced surgeon in attendance throughout the procedure. Rapid evaluation should be performed for any unexplained problems that occur in the operating theatre or during the early postoperative period.