title: Impending catheter perforation of superior vena cava: radiographic recognition.
abstract: In six of nine patients with superior vena caval perforation by a central venous catheter, the chest radiograph showed a gentle curve at the tip of the catheter 4 hr to 7 days before clinical or radiographic recognition of perforation. This radiographic sign should prompt catheter repositioning to avoid the morbidity and potential mortality associated with superior vena caval perforation.
mesh_terms: D002404:Catheterization / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D007049:Iatrogenic Disease / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D011859:Radiography; D014683:Vena Cava, Superior / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000293:injuries