Limb ischemia after central venous cannulation: Is the cannulation to blame?

Abstract

A 65-year-old woman underwent right subclavian venous cannulation in the Intensive Care unit. Within a few hours following the cannulation, ischemic changes were noted in the right upper limb. A misplaced central venous catheter was suspected as the cause of the ischemia. However, a color Doppler study revealed right axillary artery thrombosis. She was put on antiplatelet therapy. Upper limb vascular complications can occur after central venous catheterization due to various causes. Timely investigations and management can help at such critical times.