Roentgenological monitoring of the position of subclavian catheters introduced by the infraclavicular approach.

Roentgenological monitoring of 684 central venous catheters introduced by the infraclavicular route showed that in 11% of cases positioning was incorrect. In particular, deviation into the right internal jugular vein after catheterisation on this side occurs in 9% of the cases. Roentgenological monitoring of the position of a central venous catheter is a necessary measure and should never be omitted. In addition, other complications such as pneumothorax can be detected in this manner. Catheters without X-ray marker should no longer be used.