Which potential complications can arise from pulmonary artery catheter insertion?

The insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter, also known as a Swan-Ganz catheter, is a procedure aimed at providing hemodynamic monitoring and managing various cardiac conditions. One notable potential complication associated with this procedure is cardiac perforation. This occurs when the catheter inadvertently punctures the right ventricle or other cardiac chambers during insertion. The risk is heightened when levels of pressure within the heart are abnormal, or when there is improper technique during placement.

Cardiac perforation can lead to serious consequences, such as cardiac tamponade, causing hemodynamic instability and the need for urgent intervention. Considering the risks involved in catheterization, it is critical to continuously monitor the patient for any signs of complications during and after the procedure.

Other complications associated with pulmonary artery catheter insertion, although they may occur, are less directly linked to the procedure itself compared to cardiac perforation. For instance, left bundle-branch block can occur due to various factors not necessarily related to the catheter insertion. Mitral valve rupture and pulmonary infarction, while possible complications in a broader clinical context, are not typically immediate risks specific to the placement of a pulmonary artery catheter.