Radiculopathy due to iatrogenic fistula between subclavian artery and internal jugular vein.

Central venous cannulation is a routine procedure. We describe a rare complication of internal jugular vein catheterization leading to radiculopathy of the right upper arm. MRI of the neck showed compression of the spinal cord and C2-C7 roots by the engorged veins. Digital subtraction angiography demonstrated a fistula between subclavian artery and internal jugular vein. The fistula was successfully occluded by stent placement in the artery.