Subclavian vein stenosis: complication of subclavian vein catheterization for hemodialysis.

Subclavian vein catheterization is a relatively safe procedure. Few long-term complications have been reported. We recently diagnosed subclavian vein stenosis in a 14-year-old peritoneal dialysis patient. The stenosis occurred 2 years after the use of a subclavian vein catheter for temporary hemodialysis. Stenosis became clinically apparent by progressive painless swelling of the right arm and was documented by venography.