Brachial plexus neuropathy following attempt at subclavian vein catheterization. Case report
Trentman, T.L.; Rome, J.D.; Messick, J.M.
Regional Anesthesia 21(2): 163-165
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0146-521X PMID: 8829409 Document Number: 469312
Background and Objectives: The subclavian vein is often used for placement of central venous catheters, and the possibility exists of nerve injury as a complication of the procedure. Methods: A 58-year-old woman undergoing subclavian central catheter placement sustained a brachial plexus injury. A review of the English-language literature revealed no reports of brachial plexus injury during placement of a subclavian central catheter, although three reports were found in the non-English-language literature. Results: The anatomic relationship of the subclavian artery, vein, and brachial plexus at the supraclavicular triangle is described, and suggestions are given as to how to avoid this problem. Conclusions: Brachial plexus injury can occur with placement of subclavian central catheters, but proper technique should minimize this complication.