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Branch retinal artery occlusion from a retained left atrial catheter 21 years after operation
J J Drummond-Webb1, P M Bokesch, M R Ebeid
1Center for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Diseases and Department of Cardiothoracic Anesthesia, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio 44145, USA. drummoj@cesmtp.ccf.org
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|February 10, 1998
Insights
A retained left atrial catheter caused a branch retinal artery occlusion. Prompt surgical removal of the catheter is recommended to prevent serious complications.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Ophthalmology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Retained intracardiac foreign bodies pose significant risks.
- Left atrial catheters are used in various cardiac procedures.
Observation:
- A case of branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO) was identified.
- The occlusion was attributed to an embolus originating from a retained left atrial catheter.
Findings:
- Successful reoperation led to the removal of the retained left atrial catheter.
- The patient's outcome following catheter removal was not specified, but the intervention addressed the embolic source.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential embolic complications from retained intracardiac catheters.
- Emphasizes the critical need for prompt removal of retained intracardiac foreign bodies.
- Suggests vigilance in postoperative care to detect and manage retained devices.
Abstract:
A case of branch retinal artery occlusion due to an embolus from a retained left atrial catheter is presented. Removal was accomplished by reoperation. Prompt removal of any retained intracardiac catheter is recommended.