Complications

Swan-Ganz catheterisation is safe in experienced hands. Complications include:

• cardiac arrythmias:
  • usually occur during insertion of the catheter
  • the arrythmias are usually benign, resolving if the catheter is retracted temporarily
    
    
• sepsis:
  • local infection at the site of insertion
  • septicaemia
  • bacterial endocarditis
    
    
• valve trauma:
  • if the catheter is removed with the balloon inflated
  • by repeated opening and closing over the catheter
    
    
• thrombosis and embolism:
  • if the balloon is left inflated too long or if there is a thromboembolic event, large volumes of lung may be infarcted
  • the clinical features are those of a pulmonary embolus
    
    
• rupture of the pulmonary artery:
  • this is a rare but fatal complication
    
    
• rupture of the balloon:
  • this is rare
    
    
• knotting:
  • the catheter may become knotted in the right ventricle
  • may require surgical removal