Breakage of an Embolized Intravascular Catheter Fragment: A Complication of Nonsurgical Transvenous Retrieval

The use of permanently implantable central venous catheters may be complicated by catheter fracture and embolism. Nonsurgical retrieval of embolized catheter fragments is well established, and complications are rarely noted. We report a case in which the retrieval technique led to further fracture of a silicone rubber (Silastic) catheter and embolization to the lung. Silastic catheters may be prone to this complication, and appropriate caution during recovery of such catheter fragments is recommended. (Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition 16:175—177, 1992)