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[Removal of an intracardiac foreign body]

Insights

Central venous catheter fragments migrated into the heart require removal. Transvascular catheter techniques are effective but carry risks, sometimes necessitating surgical intervention for intracardiac foreign bodies.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Interventional Cardiology
  • Medical Device Complications

Background:

  • Intracardiac foreign bodies, specifically migrated central venous catheter fragments, pose a significant clinical challenge.
  • Accidental transection of central venous catheters can lead to embolization within the cardiovascular system.

Observation:

  • Four cases of intracardiac foreign bodies resulting from severed central venous catheters are presented.
  • Treatment strategies included surgical removal in one patient and transvascular catheter techniques in others.

Findings:

  • Transvascular catheter removal was attempted in three patients.
  • A complication occurred where a grasping catheter entangled with a tricuspid valve chorda, requiring combined surgical removal of the foreign body and the retrieval device.

Implications:

  • Transvascular catheter retrieval is a viable option for intracardiac foreign bodies but requires careful technique to avoid complications.
  • Complex cases may still necessitate open surgical intervention, highlighting the importance of procedural planning and risk assessment.

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