[Femoral-venous catheterization: a delayed perforation]

Abstract

Later vascular injury after central venous catheterization is not common. In literature, there are only cases reporting jugular or subclavian vein catheterization territories with a higher significative risk if the catheter is larger and in left position. We report a case of inferior vena cave perforation, nine days following femoral vein catherization for parenteral nutrition in a 72-year-old patient. This vascular perforation induced an infusion in the peritoneal and the retroperitoneal cavity with abdominal and pelvic pain. This case report may ask the question of recommendations about femoral catherization.