Carotid-jugular arteriovenous fistula: a complication of temporary hemodialysis catheter.

The internal jugular vein is increasingly being used as a temporary route for dual-lumen hemodialysis catheter placement. It is thought to be safer than the subclavian or femoral vein sites. It is important, however, to point out that this route can also be associated with serious complications. Herein we describe a case of right common carotid artery fistula as a complication of the insertion of a polyurethane double-lumen hemodialysis catheter into the right internal jugular vein. A review of the literature on traumatic complications associated with central venous cannulation is also presented.