Subclavian vein thrombosis associated with central venous cannulation in head and neck surgery

This study reports our experience with eight cases of subclavian vein thrombosis in patients with head and neck cancer. The extent of patients' underlying disease, surgical procedures or radiotherapy performed, relationship to central venous catheters, nature of the thrombosis, incidence of emboli, and therapy instituted are examined. Analysis of these cases reveals that 43% (three patients) developed pulmonary emboli despite therapy. Stage IV disease was present in 86% (seven) of the patients in this review. Specific recommendations regarding early recognition, diagnosis, treatment, and possible implications for head and neck surgical procedures are made.