Deeply positioned central venous catheter

Case contributed by Bálint Botz
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Central venous catheter insertion. Pneumothorax?

Patient Data

Age: 80 years
Gender: Male

Supine AP radiograph

x-ray

The tip of the CVC introduced through the right internal jugular vein is almost at the level of the diaphragm, and extends well beyond the presumed position of the cavoatrial junction, and is almost certainly in the right atrium. 

Enlarged heart and hila even considering the AP view and supine position, patchy, partially reticular airspace opacities indicating congestion. Status post sternotomy and prior rib fractures. 

Case Discussion

Example of a deeply positioned central venous catheter, without further complications. 

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