Fluoroscopy-Guided Removal of Tethered Surgical Drain via Guidewire Electrification: A Case Report

Tethered postoperative drains are not uncommon complications that often require open removal in the operating room, which can increase risks of surgical site infection as well as length of hospitalization. We present a novel method of tethered drain removal through guidewire electrification. A retained deep drain following a posterior cervical laminectomy and fusion was identified after failed manual removal. Under fluoroscopic guidance, the retaining suture was indirectly identified through the obstruction of an inserted guidewire, through which monopolar cautery was applied, breaking the suture and allowing drain removal. The original incision did not need to be re-opened. While further investigation is necessary for validation, this technique shows great promise as an alternative to open removal.