Percutaneous infraclavicular subclavian catheterization

Area of Science:

• Vascular Access Procedures
• Thoracic Complications
• Medical Device Interventions

Background:

• Percutaneous infraclavicular subclavian venipuncture is a common procedure for central venous access.
• Understanding the complication profile is crucial for patient safety and procedural refinement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the complication rates associated with percutaneous infraclavicular subclavian venipuncture.
• To evaluate the safety of this specific central venous access technique.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 510 percutaneous infraclavicular subclavian venipunctures.
• Documentation of all immediate complications, including pneumothorax and subcutaneous emphysema.

Main Results:

• A total of 510 procedures were analyzed.
• Five cases (0.98%) of simple pneumothorax were observed.
• One case (0.20%) of subcutaneous emphysema without pneumothorax occurred.
• No mortality was reported in association with the procedure.

Conclusions:

• Percutaneous infraclavicular subclavian venipuncture demonstrates a low incidence of serious complications.
• The procedure is associated with a minimal risk of pneumothorax and subcutaneous emphysema.
• This technique appears to be a safe method for achieving central venous access.