[Pericardial tamponade during installation of a central venous catheter].

A case report demonstrates the complication of pericardial tamponade during the installation of a central venous catheter via the subclavian vein. To reduce the high mortality of this rare complication, quickly applicable diagnostic measures and adequate therapy of pericardiocentesis are indicated. Prompt recognition and treatment of pericardial tamponade are imperative if a disastrous outcome is to be prevented.