Thoracic duct injury associated with left internal jugular vein catheterization: anatomic considerations

J Vasc Interv Radiol. 2002 Mar;13(3):337-9. doi: 10.1016/s1051-0443(07)61730-8.

Abstract

Ultrasound (US)-guided cannulation of the internal jugular vein (IJV) has become the preferred approach for venous access as a result of its higher success rate and lower incidence of complications. This report describes a case of thoracic duct injury during US-guided left IJV catheterization. The normal and variant anatomy of the thoracic duct in the neck is illustrated.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Catheterization, Central Venous / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Jugular Veins / anatomy & histology
  • Jugular Veins / diagnostic imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Thoracic Duct / anatomy & histology
  • Thoracic Duct / injuries*
  • Ultrasonography
  • Wounds and Injuries / etiology