Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 9, 2025
Upper-extremity Approach for Secondary Access in Transfemoral Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
Published on: August 8, 2025
Novel Technique in Retrieving a Completely Fractured Guiding Catheter Retained in the Ascending Aorta During
Jia Min Chua1, Paul Jau Lueng Ong2, Randal Jun Bang Low3
1Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, National Healthcare Group Singapore.
Insights
Fracture of a guiding catheter during percutaneous coronary intervention is rare. This report details a successful retrieval of a fractured guiding catheter from the ascending aorta using novel techniques.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Interventional Cardiology
- Medical Device Complications
Background:
- Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a common procedure for treating coronary artery disease.
- Guiding catheter fracture is a rare but serious complication during PCI.
- Standard retrieval options include endovascular devices or surgery.
Observation:
- A case of complete guiding catheter fracture occurred during PCI.
- The fractured tip migrated to the ascending aorta.
- The patient required urgent intervention for retrieval.
Findings:
- A novel retrieval strategy was employed, combining a homemade snare, kissing guiding catheters, and balloon trekking.
- This technique successfully retrieved the fractured guiding catheter fragment.
- The procedure was performed without further complications.
Implications:
- This case highlights a successful alternative retrieval method for fractured guiding catheters.
- The described technique may offer a less invasive option compared to surgery.
- Further research into novel retrieval devices and techniques for PCI complications is warranted.
Abstract:
Complete fracture of a guiding catheter is a rare, but potentially serious, complication of percutaneous coronary intervention. Options for removal include endovascular retrieval devices or surgery. A rare case of a fractured guiding catheter with its tip in the ascending aorta and its successful retrieval using a combination of home-made snare, kissing guiding catheter and balloon trekking technique is reported.
