What condition can be caused by catheter misplacement during central line insertion?

Catheter misplacement during central line insertion can lead to a pneumothorax, which occurs when air enters the pleural space and causes the lung to collapse. This complication is particularly relevant when a central line is inserted into the subclavian or jugular vein; if the needle inadvertently punctures the pleura, air can escape into the pleural cavity.

Recognizing this risk is crucial, as pneumothorax can lead to significant respiratory distress and may require immediate medical intervention, such as chest tube insertion, to re-establish normal lung function. While hypotension and embolism are serious conditions that can arise in specific scenarios, they are not directly caused by catheter misplacement in the same manner as a pneumothorax. An allergic reaction may occur in response to medications or contrast agents used during the procedure but is unrelated to the physical placement of the catheter itself.