Haemothorax after subclavian vein cannulation

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Interventional Radiology
• Cardiology

Background:

• Percutaneous supraclavicular puncture of the subclavian vein is a common procedure for central venous access.
• Potential complications include arterial injury, pneumothorax, and infection.

Observation:

• A case of pulmonary arterial bleeding following subclavian vein puncture is presented.
• A retrospective review of over 600 procedures was conducted.

Findings:

• Seven patients experienced serious traumatic complications during subclavian venepuncture.
• Six of these seven complications occurred in patients treated by inexperienced operators.
• Pulmonary arterial bleeding was a noted complication in one patient.

Implications:

• Highlights the critical importance of operator experience in minimizing serious complications during subclavian vein puncture.
• Suggests a need for enhanced training and supervision for operators performing this procedure.
• Emphasizes vigilance for rare but severe complications like pulmonary arterial bleeding.