Radiology of the Swan-Ganz Catheter and Associated Pulmonary Complications

Radiographic features of the Swan-Ganz catheter and the complications associated with its use are described. Pulmonary infarcts develop subsequent to wedging of the catheter in a peripheral position, failure to deflate the balloon after use, and maintenance for morethan 72 hours. The radiology of the infarct is usually classical in appearance, i.e., pleural-based density which resolves in 14-21 days. The frequency of pulmonary ischemia may BE related to compromise of the venous and collateral arterial circulation in intensive care unit patients in whom the catheter is used.