“The act of introducing an infusion catheter into an artery is a rare event, requiring careful assessment of the venous location during surgical procedures. The use of ultrasonography (USG) during catheterisation helps in accurately identifying the veins and puncture site, but it doesn’t entirely eliminate the risk of malposition. After implantation, a chest radiograph should be taken to either confirm the proper positioning of the venous device or to detect any immediate complications. Radiologic identification of an arterially placed catheter is crucial not only because of the risks associated with using the port system but also due to the potential for severe hemorrhage during catheter removal. For these patients, a vascular occluder can be employed to seal the puncture site, preventing significant trauma that could result from open surgery.”

Chen B, Yang W, Wang Z, Wei M. Intravenous infusion port catheter misplaced into the right subclavian artery. Asian J Surg. 2023 Nov 22:S1015-9584(23)01838-9. doi: 10.1016/j.asjsur.2023.10.131. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37996375.