[Severe complications after caval vein catheterization (author's transl)].

In 13 autopsy cases after catheterization of the superior caval vein a surprisingly high rate of incorrect positions of the catheter tip within the right atrium was seen. This had resulted in wide spreaded lesions of the endocardium and in voluminous thrombosis around the catheter tip. In one case a pericardial serous effusion with letal cardiac tamponade was found because of such malpositioning of a caval catheter. The mechanical stress to the endothelium by the catheter tip is held responsible for the intima lesions in the right atrium. The need for X-ray-control of the catheter position and its fixation at the site of entry through the skin is stressed.