Unmasking of subclavian vein obstruction following creation of arteriovenous fistulae for haemodialysis. A problem following subclavian line dialysis?

We report three cases of subclavian vein obstruction following haemodialysis by a subclavian line. The obstruction only became apparent clinically following the formation of an arteriovenous fistula on the same side as the initial catheterisation. In each case, gross swelling of the arm followed creation of the fistula. One case responded to treatment with anticoagulants, but the other two required ligation of the arteriovenous fistula with rapid resolution of the swelling.