Fatal haemothorax following large-bore percutaneous cannulation before liver transplantation.

Jankovic, Z; Boon, A; Prasad, R · Br J Anaesth · 2005

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

Percutaneous bypass catheters are routinely used for veno-venous bypass (VVBP) during orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). The recognized risks include bleeding, injury of vascular and nerve structures and lymphatic leakage. We describe a case where there were difficulties during catheterization and the patient suffered a cardiac arrest on commencing VVBP. Post-mortem examination revealed the bypass catheter tip in the pleural space and a large right haemothorax. Possible mechanisms of vascular perforation and preventative measures are discussed.

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