Retrograde Migration of a Retained Radial Arterial Catheter Fragment: A Rare Perioperative Complication

We report a rare case of inadvertent transection and retrograde intravascular migration of a radial arterial catheter fragment in a 52-year-old woman undergoing transcranial resection of a recurrent pituitary macroadenoma. The catheter had been inserted using the Seldinger technique and secured with three sutures. During catheter removal in the postoperative ward, an unexpected movement by the patient led to accidental transection and retention of the catheter's distal portion within the radial artery. Initial bedside exploration was inconclusive. A computed tomography angiography (CTA) confirmed the presence of the retained catheter fragment approximately 3 cm proximal to the radial styloid. Surgical removal under general anesthesia was successful without complications. We review this rare complication in light of previously published cases and highlight preventative strategies.