Misplacement of a Swan-Ganz catheter after insertion through the left internal jugular vein.

We report a case of perforation of the left brachiocephalic vein after insertion through the left internal jugular vein. Entrapment of air in the balloon occurred, possibly due to high surrounding tissue pressure at its base, preventing deflation. We emphasize the potential hazards of catheterization via the left internal jugular vein.