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Retrieval of "old" foreign bodies from the cardiovascular system in children
A G Farrell1, S R Parikh, R K Darragh
1Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University Hospitals, Indianapolis, USA.
Insights
Retrieving embolized catheter and guide wire fragments from the heart and pulmonary vasculature is possible even after a significant delay. This study details successful removal of "old" foreign bodies in children without complications.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Interventional Radiology
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Embolization of catheter and guide wire fragments to the heart and pulmonary vasculature requires retrieval.
- Typically, retrieval occurs shortly after embolization.
Observation:
- This report details the retrieval of embolized fragments in 3 pediatric patients.
- A significant delay occurred between embolization and retrieval.
Findings:
- Successful retrieval of "old" embolized catheter and guide wire fragments was achieved in all 3 cases.
- No complications were reported during the removal procedures.
- Specific techniques and challenges associated with removing delayed foreign bodies are described.
Implications:
- Delayed retrieval of embolized fragments is a viable option in pediatric cases.
- The findings may inform procedural strategies for managing late-presenting foreign body emboli.
- Further research into optimal techniques for aged foreign body retrieval is warranted.
Abstract:
Several techniques have been developed to retrieve catheter and guide wire fragments that have embolized to the heart and pulmonary vasculature. In most instances, retrieval of the embolized fragments is performed soon after the event has occurred. In this report, we summarize our experience with the removal of these fragments in 3 children after a significant amount of time had elapsed since the time of embolization. The embolized catheter and guide wire fragments were removed without any complications. We also describe the techniques used for their removal, and the problems encountered during the removal of these "old" foreign bodies.