Iatrogenic subclavian artery rupture: A unique case report on balloon occlusion

Inadvertent subclavian artery puncture during attempted central venous catheterization can be devastating. Percutaneous stent grafting, closure devices and conventional surgery have been described to effect repair. Balloon occlusion has also been described and often recommended. Numerous publications advise use of balloon expanded to no less than the diameter of the punctured artery.

We describe the case of a 21 year-old male whose right subclavian artery was inadvertently punctured after central-line removal. Our balloon when expanded was purposely slightly smaller than the inner arterial diameter. Balloon occlusion nevertheless alone sufficed to effect closure and repair.

When the expanded balloon surpasses the diameter of the subclavian artery, it is expected that blood flow to the upper extremity will be cut off. Presently, there is a lack of definitive data concerning the maximum duration for balloon inflation that could lead to upper extremity ischemia. However, in this particular case, there was a temporary reduction in vertebral artery flow, while the flow in the carotid and axillosubclavian arteries remained rapid and uninterrupted. To our understanding, only one other case documents the use of a balloon shorter than the vessel diameter.

In specific scenarios, it is advisable to consider the use of smaller balloon diameters to effectively stop extravasation while ensuring adequate perfusion to the brain and hand. While alternative approaches such as open repair, and stent graft procedure have been reported for repairing subclavian artery rupture, balloon tamponade provides interventional radiologists with a distinct technical advantage.