Abstract
The case history of a patient who developed a unilateral pneumothorax with contra-lateral hydrothorax following percutaneous subclavian vein catheterization is outlined, and suggestions are made to explain how this unusual double complication may have been produced. Recommendations for greater safety when using this technique are: routine post-procedure radiography with contrast injection, at least at weekly intervals, and withdrawal of the catheter by a few millimetres prior to fixation and daily thereafter. Constant awareness of the risk of serious complications is necessary.

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