Delayed pneumothorax after subclavian vein catheterization and positive pressure ventilation.

Delayed pneumothorax may occur after subclavian vein catheterization and results from slow accumulation of air in the pleural space. Thus initial postinsertion chest x-rays may not detect this complication. The addition of positive pressure ventilation for general anaesthesia may make this complication life threatening. We report three cases and the literature is surveyed.