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Spontaneous fracture and embolization of a central venous catheter: prevention and early detection
C E Coles1, W P Whitear, J H Le Vay
1Addenbrooke's NHS Trust, Cambridge, UK.
Clinical Oncology (Royal College of Radiologists (Great Britain))
|January 16, 1999
Abstract:
Central venous catheters are used increasingly in oncology patients. Spontaneous fracture and embolization of a catheter is a rare complication. This report illustrates such a case, in which the fragment was retrieved percutaneously. Impending line fracture may be detected by the 'pinch-off sign' on a chest radiograph. Prevention may be possible by inserting the catheter more laterally.