Hydropneumomediastinum and bilateral hydropneumothorax as delayed complications of central venous catheterization.

A case of hydropneumomediastinum and bilateral hydropneumothorax from a central venous catheter is described. The complication is related to the position of the catheter after placement through the left internal jugular vein. Proper placement of a central venous line into the superior vena cava is essential to avoid this serious complication.