Retained Endovascular Catheter Causing Erosive Cyst Formation of the Cuboid After Embolization: A Case Report

This report describes a 20-year-old woman with aggravating pain and swelling in the left foot a year after lower extremity angiography and embolization for a vascular lesion. Despite successful embolization, the patient continued to experience worsening pain, swelling, and hypersensitivity, which was diagnosed as complex regional pain syndrome. Imaging revealed a retained microcatheter with embolization material causing a significant cystic lesion in the cuboid with cortical erosion. Surgical intervention was performed including removal of the foreign material, debridement, and viable cellular bone allograft, which yielded symptom resolution.

This case highlights the importance of maintaining clinical suspicion for possible complications of lower extremity endovascular procedures. Persistent foot pain after embolization for vascular lesions may mimic complex regional pain syndrome, but retained foreign material should remain in the differential to avoid missed osseous complications.