Unrecognized Extravascular Misplaced Hemodialysis Catheter Leading to Mediastinal Hematoma

Insertion of the hemodialysis catheter resulting in mechanical complications is not uncommon. Most significant morbidities can be reliably evaluated using postprocedural chest radiography, however, an extracava catheter misplacement leading to hemomediastinum is very rare and the radiographic findings may be subtle. If it is not recognized early, a significant morbidity can occur. The radiographic manifestations of mediastinum hematoma include mediastinal or paratracheal stripe widening, apical cap sign, and deviation of trachea or bronchus, but it cannot provide adequate sensitivity or specificity for the diagnostic confirmation.
Source: Journal of Emergency Nursing: JEN - Category: Nursing Authors: Tags: Images Source Type: research