Azygos arch cannulation by central venous catheters for hemodialysis

• Published in: The journal of vascular access Vol. 7; no. 1; pp. 43 - 45
• Main Authors: Granata, A, Figuera, M, Castellino, S, Logias, F, Basile, A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01-01-2006
• Subjects: Azygos Vein - diagnostic imaging; Catheterization, Central Venous - adverse effects; Female; Humans; Jugular Veins - diagnostic imaging; Middle Aged; Renal Dialysis - methods; Tomography, X-Ray Computed
• ISSN: 1129-7298; 1724-6032
• DOI: 10.1177/112972980600700109

Cannulation of central veins and placement of catheters for temporary haemodialysis is a common procedure in the management of patients with end stage renal failure. The internal jugular vein is the site of choice for central venous catheter placement, being associated with the lowest complication rate. This procedure can be associated with a variety of malpositions of the catheter and rarely, can lead to significant morbidity and even mortality, if this is not recognised and corrected early. For anatomical reasons, the risk of azygos arch cannulation is substantially increased if catheters are inserted via left-sided veins. We report a case with a rare complication associated with the insertion of a catheter for temporary haemodialysis.