[Contralateral hemothorax: a late complication of subclavian vein catheterization]

Central venous catheterization is extensively used in unstable patients who need hemodynamic monitoring and in patients who require prolonged treatment such as, chemotherapy, antibiotics therapy, parenteral nutrition, or temporary hemodialysis. Subclavian vein catheterization is the preferred approach for hemodialysis, especially as it does not restrict the patient. Most of the complications related to this procedure are insignificant, however, occasionally they may be life threatening and require surgical intervention. We present a case study of a 77-year-old woman suffering from chronic renal failure. A subclavian catheter was inserted, and the patient started hemodialysis. Three weeks later, during hemodialysis, she complained of right upper abdominal and right chest pain. Chest X-ray showed a moderate to large right pleural effusion, with pleurocentesis confirming the presence of hemothorax.