Triple wire technique for removal of fractured angioplasty guidewire

Device fracture or dislodgement is an infrequent complication of percutaneous coronary intervention. While uncommon, there are a number of well-described complications including perforation, thrombosis and arrhythmia. Several percutaneous retrieval techniques have been previously utilized. We describe the use of three standard 0.014 inch angioplasty guidewires to simply and effectively remove a fractured guidewire located within a distal coronary artery. Various methods of management available in cases of device dislodgement or fracture are discussed, as is the potential mechanism of guidewire fracture.