Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 3, 2025

The Supraclavicular Fossa Ultrasound View for Central Venous Catheter Placement and Catheter Change Over Guidewire
Published on: December 23, 2014
Pneumothorax Complications During Placement of Peripheral Internal Jugular Intravenous Catheters
1Emergency Medicine Department, Regions Hospital, Saint Paul, Minnesota.
Background:
A "peripheral IJ" is a 2.5-in angiocatheter placed in the internal jugular vein with ultrasound guidance but typically no barrier precautions. Previously published literature has shown safety with none to minimal complications.
Case Report:
This report describes 2 cases of iatrogenic pneumothorax that occurred during this procedure. One was caused by an emergency medicine intern, the other by an experienced faculty member. Both occurred in petite women with low body mass indices. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: It is important to remember that there are risks inherent with using the internal jugular vein for intravenous access. Particular vigilance should be used with patients who are thin.
Related Concept Videos
Pneumothorax-II
Clinical Manifestations:
Pneumothorax-I
Pneumothorax can be even further classified as spontaneous, traumatic, and tension pneumothorax.
Endoscopic Studies II: Thoracocentesis
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...
Pneumonia III: Complications and Assessment
Endocarditis IV: Nursing Management
Aneurysm IV: Nursing Management

