Endovascular Management of Iatrogenic Subclavian Artery Catheterization during Single-Incision Chest Port Placement

The chest port is an integral part of the treatment of various malignancies. Placement of this intravascular device is achieved most commonly through a double-incision approach and recently by utilizing a newer single-incision technique. The single-incision technique is associated with better cosmetic outcomes, decreased infection rates, and less tissue injury. In this case, during routine double port placement utilizing single-incision subcutaneous infraclavicular approach, inadvertent catheterization of the right subclavian artery at the origin of the right vertebral artery was noted. The defect was repaired with a novel approach utilizing a 7 mm x 7 mm HyperForm compliant balloon (Covidien) under fluoroscopic guidance. At the conclusion of the procedure, the patient had no neurologic deficits and intact vascular exam of the upper extremities.