Challenging Percutaneous Extraction of an Intracardiac Implantable Chamber Catheter

Fracture and embolization of a port catheter represent rare but serious complications in the pediatric population. Patient management may represent a clinical challenge because it requires identifying the most appropriate therapeutic approach.

We present a case of catheter disconnection from the implanted chamber with migration into the right-sided cardiac chambers during device removal in an 11-month-old infant with nephrotic syndrome. Decision-making was challenging due to the presence of multiple complications, including superior vena cava thrombosis, suspected infective endocarditis, and pericardial effusion. The heart team opted for transcatheter retrieval, which was successfully performed.

Management of embolized catheters in children must be individualized, considering the patient's weight, the size and location of the embolized catheter, the duration since catheter implantation, and any coexisting complications.

In expert hands, transcatheter retrieval represents a safe and less invasive option than surgery.