A missing piece: Fracture of peripheral intravenous cannula, a case report

Peripheral venous cannulation is the most common procedure, often performed by junior colleagues. Despite its benign nature, it is associated with extravascular infiltration, thrombophlebitis, hematoma, catheter-associated bloodstream infections, trauma to surrounding structures, including tendon and nerve injures, hematoma formation and air embolism. Fracture of a peripheral intravenous cannula in situ is a rare, potentially serious complication that is underreported. More importantly, the etiology and prevention of this complication are not widely known by those performing cannulation. This case report will increase awareness and knowledge on intravenous peripheral cannula fracture to improve peripheral intravenous cannulation safety.

In this case report, we describe a fracture of a size 18 G plastic peripheral intravenous cannula (Neovac-Neomedic) in situ in a 76-year-old hypertensive male managed at Aga Khan Hospital Dar es salaam, Tanzania. The cannula's fracture was noticed 24 h later during the cannula's removal, where a fragment of the cannula was noted, and a palpable cord-like structure was appreciated along the cubital fossa. Ultrasound was done to localize the distal segment, confirming a cannula fracture with the distal fragment's retention. Surgical exploration under local anesthetic was necessary, retrieving the fragment. There were no intra-operatively or post-operative complications encountered. Proximal migration of the segment risks the chances of developing sepsis, dysrhythmia, and myocardial infarction, but this did not occur in our case.

Reinsertion of the guide needle into the plastic sheath in situ most probably caused the fracture. Additional healthcare costs are incurred for investigation, admission, and surgical procedures. The patient experience may be affected by this complication.

Understanding the guide needle's reinsertion may result in cannula fracture, allows safer cannulation practices by the clinician and adequate counseling of the patient before the procedure.