Timely identified early migration of peripherally inserted central catheter by focused ultrasound

A peripherally inserted central venous catheter (PICC) has been widely applied to central venous assess. There were some known complications such as phlebitis, leakage, blockage, dislodgment, breakage, or malposition of PICC. Catheter migration was assessed by using chest radiograph or administering contrast medium. Herein, we report a 77-year-old woman presenting to emergency department with odynophagia and left neck swelling of 3 days duration. The initial impression was deep neck infection. Focused ultrasound identified a hyperechoic tube with thrombosis in left jugular vein, which indicated migration of PICC. Clinical symptoms immediately resolved after removal of PICC and anticoagulation therapy.