Unsuspected retained 60-cm intravenous guidewire

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Interventional Radiology
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Central venous catheterization is a common procedure.
• Guidewires are essential tools for central line placement.
• Accidental retention of foreign bodies can occur during invasive procedures.

Observation:

• A 60-cm intravenous guidewire was inadvertently retained within a patient.
• The retained guidewire was not detected on initial postoperative chest and abdominal radiographs.
• Computed tomography (CT) was required for diagnosis after 150 days.

Findings:

• The retained guidewire remained asymptomatic for 150 days.
• Percutaneous retrieval of the guidewire was successfully performed without complications.
• This case underscores the potential for delayed diagnosis of retained foreign bodies.

Implications:

• Emphasizes the need for meticulous technique during central line placement.
• Highlights the limitations of standard radiography in detecting certain retained foreign bodies.
• Suggests the utility of advanced imaging like CT for diagnosing suspected retained devices.
• Demonstrates the feasibility of delayed percutaneous retrieval of retained guidewires.