A Rare Complication of Subclavian Vein Catheterization: Mediastinal Haematoma, Delayed Resorption

Abstract

Attempts for right and left subclavian vein catheterizations were unsuccessful in a patient followed for pre-eclampsia. Meanwhile, the patient developed chest pain and dyspnea. Chest radiography revealed mediastinal widening. Later, mediastinal haematoma was diagnosed by thoracic computed tomography. At 28 days follow-up, the mediastinal haematoma was resorbed. A review of literature revealed very few cases of mediastinal haematoma secondary to subclavian vein catheterization. In all these cases the haematoma was resorbed, usually within one week. Mediastinal haematoma is a rare complication and its resolution after several weeks adds to its rarity.

Key Words:

• Central venous catheterization
• subclavian vein
• mediastinal haematoma

Additional information

Notes on contributors

S. Gezer

Dr. S. Gezer, M.D. Pinarba§i mahallesi Ana sokagi, 13/5 Keçiôren, Ankara, Turkey Tel.: [phone] E-mail: [email protected]