Description: This stock medical exhibit shows the placement of a Port-a-cath with resulting hemothorax (blood in the pleural cavity) in a series of illustrations. The first illustration shows multiple unsuccessful attempts at puncture of the subclavian vein through the deltopectoral junction. The second illustration shows a puncture made into the internal jugular vein instead, and the successful insertion of the Port-a-cath down into the superior vena cava. The third illustration shows the subsequent condition, which is severe pleuritic pain due to hemothorax.

Last Updated: Apr 3rd, 2009