Rhondali O, Berend M, Dequeiroz M, Chassard D
Département D'anesthésie-Réanimation, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, 59, boulevard Pinel, 69677 Bron Cedex, France.
Ann Fr Anesth Reanim. 2011 Oct;30(10):746-8. doi: 10.1016/j.annfar.2011.05.007. Epub 2011 Jul 20.
Development of ultrasound in the operating room has improved the safety of patients requiring the placement of a central venous line in children. However, the risk of venous or myocardial perforation related to the use of guidewires or inappropriate dilators persists despite the use of ultrasound. We report the case of a pericardial puncture after central venous catheterization in an infant of three months. Immediate diagnosis and rapid treatment led to a favorable outcome. We believe chest radiography and systematic opacification are mandatory before fluid administration through the catheter, in order to reduce residual risk of serious complication.
