Catheter embolization following median sternotomy.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Vascular Access
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Median sternotomy is a common surgical approach for open-heart procedures.
• Internal jugular vein (IJV) catheterization is frequently used for central venous access in these patients.
• Potential complications of IJV catheterization include malposition and vascular injury.

Observation:

• A case of intraoperative internal jugular vein catheter embolization occurred during median sternotomy.
• The catheter likely intersected with the sternotomy incision.
• This complication highlights a potential risk associated with IJV cannulation during this procedure.

Findings:

• The embolization event was identified intraoperatively.
• The specific mechanism involved the sternotomy's impact on the cannulated IJV.
• This case underscores the anatomical relationship between the IJV and the sternotomy plane.

Implications:

• Right-sided internal jugular vein cannulation may be preferable in patients undergoing median sternotomy.
• This approach could mitigate the risk of catheter embolization or injury.
• Standardizing cannulation site selection may enhance patient safety in cardiac surgery.