Loss of a Guidewire During Central Venous Catheter Insertion Into the Right Internal Jugular Vein

TL;DR

A case report describes the loss of a guidewire during central venous catheter insertion and its successful surgical removal.

Contribution

The paper highlights a rare complication and emphasizes the importance of proper technique and supervision during CVC insertion.

Findings

The guidewire was lost during CVC insertion into the right internal jugular vein.

X-rays located the guidewire in the inferior vena cava, and it was successfully removed surgically.

The case underscores the need for adherence to protocols to prevent such complications.

Abstract

Central venous catheter (CVC) insertion is a widely practiced technique for various purposes, such as administering fluids and medications, performing hemodialysis, and monitoring central venous pressure. During CVC insertion, numerous complications can arise, including the loss of the guidewire.

This case involves a 35-year-old female undergoing long-term hospitalization due to severe brain injury resulting from head trauma. She required long-term antibiotic therapy. Following the insertion of the CVC, the loss of the guidewire was noted, prompting immediate chest and abdominal X-rays, revealing its location in the inferior vena cava. The guidewire was surgically removed without any recorded complications.

To mitigate such complications, it is crucial to enhance technical proficiency in insertion techniques, seek supervision during procedures, and meticulously attend to every detail of the process, adhering closely to approved protocols or guidelines.

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