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Infection with fatal outcome after endovascular metallic stent placement
E Therasse1, G Soulez, P Cartier
1Department of Radiology, Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu de Montréal, Quebec, Canada.
Abstract:
The authors describe a case in which infection developed in a patient after placement of a metallic endoprosthesis in the iliac artery. The patient died of respiratory failure secondary to sepsis. Imaging studies did not reveal an abscess, aneurysm, or stent occlusion. Stent cultures and hemocultures grew Staphylococcus aureus. As with any foreign body, infectious complications may occur after insertion of metallic stents and should be recognized as soon as possible to initiate appropriate therapy.
Insights
A patient developed Staphylococcus aureus infection and died from sepsis after receiving an iliac artery metallic endoprosthesis. Early recognition of infectious complications from foreign bodies like stents is crucial for prompt treatment.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Device Complications
Background:
- Metallic endoprostheses, such as iliac artery stents, are common in vascular interventions.
- While generally safe, the risk of infection associated with implanted foreign bodies must be considered.
Observation:
- A patient developed a severe infection following the implantation of a metallic endoprosthesis in the iliac artery.
- Despite imaging, no abscess, aneurysm, or stent occlusion was detected.
- The patient ultimately succumbed to respiratory failure due to sepsis.
Findings:
- Cultures from the stent and blood (hemocultures) identified Staphylococcus aureus as the causative agent.
- This case highlights a fatal infectious complication linked to a vascular stent.
Implications:
- Infectious complications can arise from any foreign body, including metallic stents.
- Prompt recognition and management of stent-related infections are critical for patient outcomes.
- This underscores the importance of vigilance for infection in patients with vascular implants.