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Transfemoral snaring of broken catheters from the right heart in small infants
Insights
Retrieval of embolized central venous catheter fragments from the right heart was successful in two infants. A specialized snare technique using the femoral vein achieved complete removal without complications.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Interventional Radiology
Background:
- Central venous catheters are essential in neonates but carry risks.
- Catheter fragment embolization to the heart is a rare but serious complication.
- Prompt retrieval is crucial to prevent adverse events.
Observation:
- Two infants experienced catheter fragment embolization to the right atrium.
- Fragments originated from central venous catheters broken at the insertion site.
- The patients weighed 2100 and 4050 grams.
Findings:
- A 5F Cook catheter and a 0.018-inch Curry snaring wire were used.
- Percutaneous retrieval was performed via the femoral vein.
- Successful removal of all foreign bodies was achieved without complications.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates a safe and effective retrieval method for infants.
- Minimally invasive techniques can be utilized for pediatric foreign body retrieval.
- Highlights the importance of specialized tools in managing catheter complications.
Abstract:
Successful retrieval of embolized central venous catheter fragments from the right heart was accomplished in two small infants weighing 2100 and 4050 Gm respectively. The catheters had been broken off at the site of entry into the vein and migrated to right atrium. A 5F end-hole Cook catheter with 0.018 inch diameter, 125 cm long Curry snaring wire with flexible mid-segment was successfully utilized through the femoral vein percutaneously to remove the foreign body without complication.