Massive hemoptysis secondary to flow-directed thermodilution catheters.

Hemoptysis is an unusual complication of flow-directed (Swan-Ganz) catheters. Over-inflation of the balloon with a shearing-induced rupture of a small pulmonary artery, and the spear effect of the catheter tip appear to be the mechanisms in the two cases presented. Diligent care to avoid overinflation of the balloon in the pulmonary capillary wedge position by observation of the pressure waveform is critical. The spear effect that is frequently seen during insertion may be eliminated by deflating the balloon at the first appearance of the pulmonary artery waveform and gradual advancement of the catheter five to eight cm, when the balloon is then reinflated to obtain the wedge.