Percutaneous retrieval of nonvascular foreign bodies

Although intravascular foreign bodies are routinely removed with percutaneous extraction, surgical retrieval is performed of most nonvascular foreign bodies. The authors describe six cases in which percutaneous extraction was performed for removal of nonvascular foreign bodies. These foreign bodies included an intraabdominal laparotomy towel, two pelvic drains, an angiographic guidewire fragment in a pelvic abscess cavity, and a superficially located sewing needle and bullet fragment. Computed tomography or plain radiography was performed to define the safest track for percutaneous removal. Fluoroscopy was performed to direct foreign body removal; the major challenge of the procedure was precise localization of the foreign body to minimize dissection. Although a surgeon and operating suite were available for backup care if necessary, all six foreign bodies were removed successfully without complication by the interventional radiologist in the radiology suite. Percutaneous retrieval of nonvascular foreign bodies, while not frequently performed, can in many cases obviate surgical incisions, extensive dissection, and the cost and risk of administration of general anesthesia.