Inadvertent Catheterization of the Internal Thoracic Vein Mimicking Pulmonary Embolism: A Case Report

Although aberrant locations are typical complications of central venous catheterization, the right internal thoracic vein (mammary vein) is an exceptional one. A case of this unusual aberrant location occurring after right internal jugular venous cannulation for total parenteral nutrition, is described. This aberrant position caused signs and symptoms resembling pulmonary embolism. This is the first known description of the symptoms induced by the infusion of parenteral solution into the right internal thoracic vein. ( Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition 12: 221–222, 1988)