Management of iatrogenic subclavian artery rupture: two case reports

Bleeding of the branches of a subclavian artery can be a life-threatening condition. Subclavian artery bleeding can lead to tracheal obstruction, hemothorax, respiratory failure, hemorrhagic shock, and death if not diagnosed early and treated promptly. Injury to the subclavian artery occurs in multiple different manners including blunt, penetrating, or iatrogenic trauma. Here we reported two cases of injury of the branches of the right subclavian artery (RSA); one following a central venous catheterization and the other following a thoracic drainage tube placement. Herein we describe two endovascular treatment options used in the management of rupture of a subclavian artery. The proximal tract of the subclavian artery and its main branches is also considered a 'border territory' between interventional vascular radiology and interventional neuroradiology because it gives rise to branches both cervical and to the upper limbs.