Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2025
Transcorporal Artificial Urinary Sphincter Cuff Placement in a Case Requiring Revision for Urethral Atrophy
Published on: June 16, 2022
Retained arterial catheter following patient self-discontinuation-a case report
Alexandria Byskosh1, Kevin Olsen2
1St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, Department of Surgery, Chobanian and Boston University's Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02135, United States.
Insights
A patient accidentally left an arterial catheter in place after self-discontinuation. Surgical removal was necessary, highlighting the need for improved catheter design and placement protocols to prevent retained medical devices.
Area of Science:
- Medical device safety
- Vascular surgery
- Diagnostic imaging
Background:
- Arterial lines are crucial for hemodynamic monitoring in critical care.
- Accidental retention of arterial catheters can lead to significant patient harm and complications.
Observation:
- A case of a retained arterial catheter following patient self-discontinuation is presented.
- Bedside ultrasound successfully identified the retained arterial catheter.
Findings:
- The retained catheter necessitated surgical exploration and removal under general anesthesia.
- Contributing factors to catheter retention and potential solutions were analyzed.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of robust protocols for arterial line management and removal.
- Recommendations for catheter design and placement are proposed to mitigate risks of retained devices.
- Highlights the utility of point-of-care ultrasound in diagnosing retained foreign objects.
Abstract:
A patient self-discontinues arterial line resulting in retention of arterial catheter. The retained catheter was identified on bedside ultrasound and the patient required radial artery exploration and removal of catheter under general anesthesia. We describe potential contributing factors and solutions to catheter design and placement as well as next steps once a retained catheter has been identified.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway
Equipment Required
01:27Parentral Nutrition: Centeral and Peripheral Parental Nutrition
PN can be administered through two primary routes:
1. Central Parenteral Nutrition (CPN):
CPN involves delivering a high concentration of nutrients through a large vein. This is typically achieved using a Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) or,...