Hemopericardium resulting from attempted internal jugular vein catheterization: a case report and review of complications of central venous catheterization.

An unusual case of hemopericardium and presumed fatal cardiac tamponade complicating attempted right internal jugular vein catheterization by the posterior approach is reported. Reports of complications in a series of internal jugular vein catheterizations using various approaches (posterior, central, anterior, supraclavicular) and subclavian vein catheterizations are reviewed. Internal jugular vein catheterization is not necessarily safer than subclavian vein catheterization: numerous factors determine success rate and complication rate in central venous catheterizations.