A rare case of iatrogenic pseudoaneurysm of the left brachiocephalic vein after central venous catheterization treated with thrombin injection.

Rupture of the central veins with venous pseudoaneurysm formation is an unusual complication of central venous catheterization. Only seven cases of brachiocephalic venous pseudoaneurysm have been reported in the literature (among these only one was secondary to central venous catheterization). Plain radiographic examination of the chest may show widening of the mediastinum, pleural effusion (haemothorax), and/or opacity overlying the hemithorax of the injured vein. Further evaluation using either computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging can be performed. Venography is considered an important tool, especially when an intervention is planned. We present the first reported case of brachiocephalic vein pseudoaneurysm treated solely with thrombin injection. The imaging, other treatment options, and literature review of brachiocephalic venous pseudoaneurysm are also discussed.