Central venous catheterization is widely used during open heart and aortic surgery, in the treatment of patients in intensive care units, and patients with chronic renal failure. Internal jugular vein, femoral and subclavian vein are most frequently used. External jugular vein, cephalic and basilic veins are less frequently used. Lifethreatening complications are seen more frequently in patients performed central venous catheterization. Early period complications are arterial puncture, pneumothorax, hemothorax, arrhythmia, tamponade, air embolism, adjacent nerve injury, the guide wire remaining in the vessel, aortic injury, catheter breakage, and perforation of the vein or atrium. In the long term; arteriovenous fistula, arterial and venous aneurysm, venous thrombosis, and various infections may be observed depending on the catheter administration area and duration. Prompt detection and treatment of possible complications reduce mortality and morbidity. For this reason, radiological imaging should definitely be performed in early period.

Keywords : Brachiocephalic vein; central venous catheterization; perforation