title: Central venous catheterization and fatal cardiac tamponade.
abstract: Cardiac tamponade is a poorly recognized complication of central venous catheterization associated with a high mortality. We present a case of fatal cardiac tamponade after intra- pericardial infusion of total parenteral nutrition in a patient who had two central venous catheters. We suggest that catheter tip position should always be confirmed before use of a catheter. Tamponade should be suspected in a patient who deteriorates when a central venous catheter is used and resuscitation via the catheter should be avoided.
authors.affiliation: Department of Anaesthesia, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 2QQ, UK.
authors.forename: S A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Booth
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Norton
authors.forename: D A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Mulvey
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002305:Cardiac Tamponade / Q000209:etiology*; D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005119:Extravasation of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Materials / Q000150:complications; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010289:Parenteral Nutrition, Total / Q000009:adverse effects