Iatrogenic carotid-jugular arteriovenous fistula: a rare complication of jugular vein catheterization (a case report)

Catheterization of the internal jugular vein is widely performed by both nephrologists and surgeons. It has become a routine procedure, but can be associated with serious complications. Carotidjugular arterio-venous fistula (CJAVF) is a rare but potentially fatal complication. Very few cases have been reported in the literature. This study involved a patient with iatrogenic CJAVF following hemodialysis catheter placement performed three weeks earlier. The diagnosis was clinically suspected based on the discovery of laterocervical thrill and confirmed by echo-Doppler and angiography. The patient underwent successful open surgery. Operator experience and trainees support, in addition to the use of ultrasound guidance, can significantly reduce the occurrence of complications during jugular venous catheterization.