Embolization of a Fractured Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter to Pulmonary Arteries: A Sporadic Life-Threatening Phenomenon

The peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is a non-tunneled central venous catheter placed in the upper limb venous system, mainly in the basilic vein, and the tip terminates in the superior vena cava (SVC). A PICC is a preferred modality of central venous access in oncology, as it is associated with minimal discomfort and can be kept in situ for up to one year. Despite multiple advantages, it is also associated with complications. Fracture and migration are rare but potentially serious complications that can lead to arrhythmias, cardiac perforation, cardiac tamponade, pulmonary embolism, and sepsis. The migrated PICC fragment can be retrieved using percutaneous techniques, which have a high success rate of excess, with minimum complications. In our patient of adenocarcinoma gastroesophageal junction, the fractured and migrated PICC to pulmonary arteries was retrieved using the balloon catheter method. With more and more cancer patients using PICCs for chemotherapy administration, healthcare workers must be aware of the standard and sporadic complications of PICCs. Care of the PICC is crucial, and any lapse may lead to fracture and embolization, which is a potentially life-threatening complication. This case highlights the importance of healthcare persons being aware of the possibility of catheter embolization and methods to prevent and mitigate this phenomenon.