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Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Brachial Artery Catheterization in Swine
Published on: March 30, 2019
Considerations in catheter retrieval from the arterial system
Irwin M Best1, Karin L Butler, Harvey L Bumpers
1Department of Radiology, Emory University, School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA. irwin-best@emoryhealthcare.org
Insights
Catheter fracture during cardiovascular procedures can lead to intravascular retention. Percutaneous retrieval attempts were unsuccessful in this case, highlighting potential dangers.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Interventional Cardiology
- Medical Device Technology
Background:
- Catheter-based interventions are standard for diagnosing and treating cardiovascular diseases.
- Despite advancements, catheter separation or fracture remains a risk.
- This complication can result in serious issues like embolization or intravascular retention.
Observation:
- A case of catheter separation occurred during antegrade access via the common femoral artery.
- The fractured catheter segment was visible on fluoroscopy.
- Initial attempts at percutaneous catheter recovery were unsuccessful.
Findings:
- Surgical exploration confirmed complete intravascular retention and impaction of the fractured catheter.
- The case highlights the challenges in retrieving retained catheter fragments.
Implications:
- Physicians must be aware of the potential for catheter fracture during cardiovascular procedures.
- Percutaneous retrieval of fractured catheters can be challenging and may fail.
- Avoiding the dangers associated with percutaneous recovery of retained catheter fragments is crucial.
Abstract:
Catheter-based techniques have become commonplace in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Despite the significant improvements in materials and techniques, catheter separation or fracture may occur and result in catheter embolization or intravascular retention. We present such an occurrence during antegrade access to the common femoral artery. Although the sheared catheter was visualized fluoroscopically, attempts at percutaneous recovery were futile. Our findings at exploration confirmed total intravascular retention and impaction of the catheter. Practitioners should recognize this problem and avoid the dangers associated with percutaneous recovery.
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