Retained catheter fragment from a fractured tunneled catheter--a rare and potentially lethal complication

Despite efforts to curtail central vein catheter use for dialysis catheters are frequently used in the treatment of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). In 2006, 82% of patients in the USA initiated dialysis via a catheter. The overall of tunnelled cuffed catheter (TCC) use was 35% greater in 2005 compared with 1996. Dialysis catheter tip fracture is a rare and potentially serious complication. Herein, we present the case of an incidental finding of a retained catheter fragment from a fractured TCC in the right atrium. Fragment retrieval (via snare technique) and subsequent placement of a new central venous catheter are outlined.