Radiographic Observation of the Indwelling Venous Catheter

Abstract

The radiologist can assist in checking the position of all indwelling venous catheters. Poorly placed catheters may cause phlebitis, thrombosis, sepsis, pulmonary embolism, chylothorax, or in rare cases, embolization of the catheter itself. A case of Reye's syndrome illustrates how incorrect positioning of the catheter led to extravasation of fluid into the thorax.