Pneumothorax after Central Line Placement

Pneumothorax (for central lines placed in the chest) is a known complication of Central line placement and doctors routinely order a chest X-ray (CXR) after insertion of a subclavian or internal jugular line. The incidence is thought to be higher with subclavian vein catheterization. For experienced clinicians, the incidence of pneumothorax is about 1%. Note the abnormally placed central line extending upwards from subclavian vein into internal jugular vein along with pneumothorax.

Dr.Sumer K Sethi, MD
Consultant Radiologist ,VIMHANS and CEO-Teleradiology Providers
Editor-in-chief, The Internet Journal of Radiology
Director, DAMS (Delhi Academy of Medical Sciences