An additional imaging sign preceding spontaneous fragmentation and embolization of an implanted subclavian vein catheter.

Analysis of chest roentgenograms performed before spontaneous fragmentation and distal embolization of an implanted subclavian vein catheter revealed discontinuity of the catheter's radiopaque marker in addition to kinking of the area proximal to the breakage point. To the authors' knowledge the case presented in this article is the first report of this imaging sign before catheter fragmentation. Lateral catheter placement and early recognition of subtle imaging signs may assist in decreasing the incidence of this significant complication.