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Pneumothorax following central venous catheterisation?
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, Wycombe Hospital, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire HP11 2TT, UK. robertparker@doctors.org.uk
Emergency Medicine Journal : EMJ
|October 26, 2005
Summary
A chest X-ray suggested a pneumothorax, leading to preparation for drain insertion. However, a subsequent review revealed the finding was a skin fold artifact, not a collapsed lung.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Thoracic Medicine
Background:
- Central venous catheter placement requires imaging confirmation.
- Radiographic assessment is crucial for detecting complications like pneumothorax.
Observation:
- A chest radiograph was performed to verify central venous catheter position.
- An apparent pneumothorax was identified on initial review of the radiograph.
Findings:
- The suspected pneumothorax was determined to be an artifact.
- The artifact was caused by a prominent skin fold related to the patient's body habitus.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of careful radiological interpretation.
- Emphasizes considering patient body habitus when evaluating chest radiographs.
- Prevents unnecessary invasive procedures by distinguishing true pathology from artifacts.