Published in:
Open Access 01-12-2023 | Thoracic Trauma | Case Report
Massive hemothorax secondary to internal jugular vein central venous catheter placement in a patient undergoing spinal surgery complicated by chest trauma: a case report
Published in: Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery | Issue 1/2023
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Background
Placement of a central venous catheter (CVC) is a common procedure for spinal surgery and is relatively safe under ultrasound guidance.
Case presentation
We report the case of a 56-year-old female who underwent ultrasound-guided placement of an internal jugular vein CVC for fluid replacement during spinal surgery for thoracic vertebral burst compression fracture and multiple rib fractures as a result of a high-altitude fall injury. Hemothorax developed intraoperatively. During a thoracotomy, the tip of the CVC was found within the chest cavity. The presence of chest trauma may impact on clinician’s appreciation of the potential complications of internal jugular vein CVC placement.
Conclusion
The present case demonstrates the need for clinical awareness of the potential complications of CVC placement in patients with chest trauma and the need for adequate training in this technique.