The importance of radiology in detection of complications associated with central venous catheter insertion

one of indications of central venous catheter (CVC) insertion is monitoring of fluid therapy but its placement could be associated with complications such as tamponade, wire embolism, vascular injury (Hemothorax, Hydrothorax, carotid or subclavian artery insertion), pneumothorax, air embolism and so on. After placement of CVC, must be obtain chest radiography for detection of appropriate site of catheter and to exclude complications. We present this case to emphasize the need to have high susceptibility in recognizing central venous catheter associated complications and the importance of radiography in this field. a 77 year-old woman, a case of chronic lymphoblastic leukemia who used warfarin due to deep vein thrombosis, scheduled for emergency operation due to peritonitis. After placement of CVC, received fresh frozen plasma, and transferred to operating room once during operation and again, early upon arrival to Intensive Care Unit developed ventricular tachycardia. Chest x-ray showed massive unilateral hydrothorax. CVC insertion complication can be diagnosed with chest radiography and immediate diagnosis and suitable treatment of these complications are life saving.