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Mammography of breasts in which catheter cuffs have been retained: normal, infected, and postoperative appearances
R L Ellis1, P J Dempsey, E Rubin
1Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham 35233, USA.
Objective:
The purpose of this report is to show that Dacron (DuPont, Wilmington, DE) cuffs retained in breasts after the removal of Hickman catheters may result in complications requiring radiographic evaluation for subsequent management. We also describe potential complications, including infection, associated with a retained cuff and changes after the removal of a retained cuff.
Conclusion:
Because of the increased use of Hickman catheters for central vein access, Dacron cuffs more frequently are retained in breasts and are likely to be seen on mammograms. Radiologists need to be aware of the mammographic findings of a normal cuff, infected cuff, and the site of a surgically excised cuff.