Recurrent central venous catheter migration in a patient with brittle asthma

Central venous catheters are widely used in intensive care and critically unwell patients, and reporting of unusual complications is in the interest of those using them on a regular basis. Recognised complications involve vascular, cardiac and pulmonary systems and include the risk of infection. Described is a case with a recurrent complication of device failure secondary to migration of the central venous catheter tip as a result of recurrent coughing episodes. The approach to inserting central catheters and diagnosing the cause for the migration is discussed. This case directly demonstrated looping and significant movement of a polyurethane catheter as a result of coughing. On two occasions, this resulted in the tip migration and the catheter becoming kinked, causing premature failure of the central venous catheter. This has only been seen before with silicone catheters. There should be high index of suspicion for migration of central venous catheters in patients with history of cough. Recommendations include maintaining a high index of suspicion for migration of central venous catheters in patients with history of cough and insertion of larger French size catheters in patient groups prone to severe coughing episodes. Ways to optimise initial central venous catheter placement using intracavitary electrocardiogram should be considered along with the use of interventional radiology in complex cases and those with recurrent complications.