Percutaneous retrieval of fractured intravascular catheters in premature infants

Article type: Case Report

Authors: Rothman, A.^{a; b; *} | Jaiswal, V.^b | Evans, W.N.^{a; b} | Restrepo, H.^{a; b} | Galindo, A.^{a; b}

Affiliations: [a] Children’s Heart Center Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA | [b] Department of Pediatrics, University of Nevada Las Vegas, School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA

Correspondence: [*] Address for correspondence: Abraham Rothman, MD, Children’s Heart Center Nevada, 3006 S. Maryland Pkwy, Ste 690, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA. Tel.: +1 702 732 1290; Fax: +1 702 732 1385; E-mail: [email protected].

Abstract: BACKGROUND:Premature infants often require long-term indwelling intravascular catheters. Occasionally, catheters fracture and migrate into cardiovascular structures, risking perforation, infection, thrombosis, and interference with cardiac and valve function. This case series describes our experience with percutaneous retrieval of broken intravascular catheters. METHODS:A gooseneck micro-snare was used to retrieve fractured catheters in four premature infants, weighing between 840 and 1930 grams. RESULTS:All procedures were successful without complications. CONCLUSIONS:Gooseneck-snare retrieval of broken indwelling intravascular catheters can be performed safely and successfully in premature infants even those that weigh less than 1000 grams.

Keywords: Fractured catheters, premature infants, snare retrieval

DOI: 10.3233/NPM-180159

Journal: Journal of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, vol. 13, no. 3, pp. 413-417, 2020