Azygos vein cannulation: recognition is vital for preventing complications

Abstract

Inadvertent cannulation of the azygos vein can occur during central vein cannulations,especially from the left side. This can cause several complications, including rupture ofthe azygos vein. This complication is unlikely from the more commonly used right internaljugular vein access, although that approach is not free of complications. An abruptcurve at the tip of the central venous catheter showing venous wave forms and highoxygen saturations suggest azygos vein cannulation. Azygos vein cannulations may bemore common in patients with heart failure in which the vein is dilated.