Percutaneous retrieval of misplaced intravascular foreign objects with the Dormia basket: an effective solution

We report our experience of the retrieval of intravascular foreign body objects by the percutaneous use of the Gemini Dormia basket.

Over a period of 2 years we attempted the percutaneous removal of intravascular foreign bodies in 26 patients. Twenty-six foreign bodies were removed: 8 intravascular stents, 4 embolization coils, 9 guidewires, 1 pacemaker lead, and 4 catheter fragments. The percutaneous retrieval was achieved with a combination of guide catheters and the Gemini Dormia basket.

Percutaneous retrieval was successful in 25 of 26 patients (96.2%). It was possible to remove all the intravascular foreign bodies with a combination of guide catheters and the Dormia basket. No complication occurred during the procedure, and no long-term complications were registered during the follow-up period, which ranged from 6 months to 32 months (mean 22.4 months overall).

Percutaneous retrieval is an effective and safe technique that should be the first choice for removal of an intravascular foreign body.