Aneurysm of antecubital vein: an unusual complication of peripheral intravenous cannulation

• Main Authors: Mylona Evangelia, Wallace Stuart, Debnath Debasish, Myint Fiona
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2007-06-01
• Series: BMC Surgery
• Online Access: http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2482/7/9

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Intravenous cannulation is a very common procedure. Venous aneurysm secondary to peripheral intravenous cannulation is extremely rare. Moreover, venous aneurysm can mimic other conditions and may confuse the issue.</p> <p>Case presentation</p> <p>We describe a case of a 45-year-old woman who was referred with the diagnosis of varicose vein of right arm. A history of intravenous cannulation at the same site was noted that raised suspicion. The swelling was compressible and turned out to be a venous aneurysm. The lesion was completely excised. Postoperative recovery was uneventful. Histology findings were in conformity with the preoperative diagnosis.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Caution should be exercised in diagnosing varicose vein at a site that bears a history of intravenous cannulation. The case also raises an important issue regarding consent. Should patients undergoing peripheral intravenous cannulation be warned of this rare complication?</p>