Fatal retropleural hematoma complicating internal jugular vein catheterization. A case report
Kontozoglou, T.; Mambo, N.
American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology 4(2): 125-127
1983
ISSN/ISBN: 0195-7910 PMID: 6858997 Document Number: 210668
This report describes a case of fatal retropleural hematoma complicating percutaneous insertion of a central vein catheter. The patient was a 55-year-old female undergoing surgery for severe rheumatic mitral valve disease. Factors responsible for this catastrophic incident are the anticoagulation of the patient, the edematous state of the soft tissues, and the multiple punctures of the wall of the jugular vein.