Fractured pericardial drain sheath: Removal technique

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Interventional Cardiology
• Medical Device Complications

Background:

• Pericardiocentesis is a procedure to relieve pericardial tamponade.
• Pericardial sheaths maintain access to the pericardial space for drain manipulation.
• Prolonged sheath use can lead to rare complications like sheath fracture.

Observation:

• A patient developed a fractured pericardial sheath within the pericardial space.
• The fractured sheath became a foreign body complication.

Findings:

• Successful percutaneous retrieval of the fractured pericardial sheath was achieved.
• This minimally invasive approach avoided the need for surgical exploration.

Implications:

• Percutaneous retrieval is a viable option for managing fractured pericardial sheaths.
• Prompt intervention can prevent complications associated with retained foreign bodies.
• This technique highlights the importance of monitoring during prolonged sheath use.