Inside-out central venous catheter: an unusual finding in the usual route of catheterization

Abstract

Central venous catheterization is a common procedure in operation theatres as well as intensive care units. It is frequently used in cardiac surgery for hemodynamic monitoring as well as administration of fluid and various drugs like ionotropes, vasopressors. Among various complications, infections and mechanical complications are most common. Malposition and kinking of central venous catheter (CVC) are likely to be incidental and underreported. Technical difficulty while threading the wire or inserting the catheter, may lead to CVC malpositioning. Also the CVP tracing and the checking of backflow from catheter ports are equally important. We present a case of such an unsual case of CVC malposition and importance of vigilant monitoring.