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Laser extraction of a trapped infected port catheter in a child using existing experience from pacemaker and ICD lead
Dirk Bastian1, Klaus Fessele, Piotr Bednarski
1Division of Cardiology, Klinikum Nürnberg, Nürnberg, Germany. dirk.bastian@klinikum-nuernberg.de
Insights
A trapped Port-a-Cath (PAC) in a child with systemic infection was successfully removed using a laser technique. This innovative approach avoided the need for open-heart surgery, offering a less invasive solution for complex catheter removal.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Medical Device Technology
Background:
- Systemic infection necessitates the removal of implanted devices like the Port-a-Cath (PAC).
- PAC removal can be challenging when the catheter becomes entrapped, precluding conventional extraction methods.
Observation:
- A 9-year-old girl presented with a systemic infection linked to an entrapped PAC.
- Standard removal techniques were unsuccessful due to the catheter being trapped.
Findings:
- The entrapped PAC was successfully extracted using a laser technique.
- This method leveraged experience from pacemaker and implantable cardioverter defibrillator lead extraction.
Implications:
- Laser extraction offers a viable, less invasive alternative for complex, entrapped PAC removal in pediatric patients.
- This technique can potentially prevent the need for more invasive surgical procedures like open-heart surgery.
Abstract:
A 9-year-old girl presented with systemic infection related to a Port-a-Cath system (PAC); therefore, the urgent removal of the PAC was indicated. However, the catheter was trapped and not extractable by conventional means. Using existing comprehensive experience in the removal of pacemaker and implantable cardioverter defibrillator leads, the entrapped PAC was successfully extracted by laser technique, thus avoiding open heart surgery.
