Retrieval of intravascular foreign bodies

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Interventional Radiology
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• Intravascular catheter use for diagnosis and therapy leads to foreign body embolization.
• Retained intravascular foreign bodies pose significant risks of morbidity and mortality.
• Embolized fragments can lodge in the heart or vascular tree, causing complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe techniques for removing intravascular foreign bodies.
• To review literature on complications associated with retained foreign bodies.
• To highlight the importance of early percutaneous removal.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on foreign body embolization and removal techniques.
• Description of various percutaneous retrieval methods.
• Analysis of reported complications from retained fragments.

Main Results:

• Multiple techniques exist for the percutaneous removal of intravascular foreign bodies.
• Early removal is crucial for preventing serious complications.
• Literature confirms significant morbidity and mortality associated with retained fragments.

Conclusions:

• Foreign body embolization is an increasing concern with intravascular device use.
• Percutaneous retrieval techniques offer effective solutions for fragment removal.
• Timely intervention is essential to mitigate the risks of retained intravascular foreign bodies.