What is a potential complication of placing a right double lumen central line during CABG?

Placing a right double lumen central line during a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) procedure carries certain risks, and one of the notable potential complications is air embolism. An air embolism can occur if air is introduced into the vascular system, which can happen if the central line is not properly managed during insertion or if a disconnection occurs while the line is open.

In the context of a CABG, the risk of air embolism is heightened due to the patient's positioning and the use of traditional cardiovascular surgery techniques that may expose the central venous system to atmospheric pressure. The presence of bubbles of air in the bloodstream can lead to serious complications, including obstruction of blood vessels and impaired blood flow to vital organs, which can result in life-threatening situations.

While complications like pneumothorax can also occur if the central line is not placed appropriately, it is specifically related to the trauma of accessing the chest rather than the placement of a double lumen central line itself. Other options like hypertension and cardiac arrest might occur from various procedural factors but are not directly linked to the placement of a double lumen line in the same way as air embolism. Understanding these complications helps medical professionals mitigate risks during surgical procedures, ensuring patient safety.