Lost and found: Coronary stent retrieval and review of literature

Area of Science:

• Interventional Cardiology
• Cardiovascular Disease Management

Background:

• A 61-year-old male with prior drug-eluting stent (DES) placement in the mid right coronary artery (RCA) presented with non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction.
• Coronary angiography revealed complex distal RCA disease and in-stent stenosis in the previously stented mid RCA.

Observation:

• During attempted PCI of the mid RCA lesion, a DES failed to cross and became detached from its delivery system.
• The dislodged stent was successfully retrieved using two distinct snaring techniques.

Findings:

• The interventional procedure was terminated after successful stent retrieval, without further intervention attempts.
• The patient experienced an uneventful recovery and underwent successful PCI of the mid RCA lesion one month post-retrieval.

Implications:

• This case highlights the successful management of a rare complication during complex PCI, specifically lost stent retrieval.
• Demonstrates the feasibility of staged PCI following retrieval of a dislodged stent, ensuring patient safety and eventual treatment success.