Work

Central venous catheter detachment with migration to the right atrium: A rare complication of a common implantable device

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The intravascular embolization of catheter fragments is an uncommon yet potentially serious complication of central venous catheters (CVC). We present the case of an 81-year-old female with a history of endometrial cancer who presented from an oncologic appointment with a nonfunctioning chest port (CVC). The chest port was placed 10 months prior without complication. An initial fluoroscopic image of the chest revealed detachment and migration of the catheter towards the right atrium. The catheter was successfully retrieved with a gooseneck snare using an inferior approach through the femoral vein. Catheter detachment and embolization is a rare complication of CVCs that should be included in the differential of a nonfunctional port.

Source: Radiology Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2025.05.020

Authors: Jacob Van Vorst, Michael Hollander, Francis Flaherty

Institution: Norwalk Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Central Venous Catheters and Hemodialysis

Subfield: Emergency Medical Services

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $600