Brachial plexus neuropathy following attempt at subclavian vein catheterization. Case report

Abstract

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.