Evaluation of current techniques for nonsurgical removal of intravascular iatrogenic foreign bodies

Intravascular embolization of polyethylene catheter fragments continues to occur, the majority from intravenous indwelling catheters. Sixty-nine nonsurgical retrievals of embolized fragments have been reported. The various recorded retrieval techniques are reviewed as well as their respective successes and limitations. Complications of snare techniques, unsuccessful retrieval attempts, and factors influencing the choice of local surgical removal versus snare techniques are discussed. The fate of patients from whom embolized catheter fragments were not removed is reviewed in depth. Our figures indicate a 71% incidence of death or serious complication, which is significantly higher than previously reported.