Successful recovery of central venous catheter fragment from coronary venous sinus and right ventricle: A case report

Catheter fracture with subsequent embolization is a well known but a potentially serious late complication of central venous catheter placement. Central venous catheters are frequently implanted for the purpose of chemotherapy and parenteral nutrition. Most common vein used for the placement of central venous catheter is subclavian vein. According to case reports, catheter placed in subclavian vein is vulnerable for fracture and is often preceded by the "pinch-off sign", first described by Aikten and Minton. It is due to shearing forces between the clavicle and first rib. Broken catheter frequently embolises to Right atrium, Right Ventricle, Inferior vena cava, Pulmonary arteries and rarely into Coronary sinus. Migration to Coronary sinus is very uncommon and only 5 cases are reported in the literature as of now. We are presenting an unusual case where chemoport catheter severed and lodged partly in coronary venous sinus and partly in right ventricle taking a "U "shape. Fragment was successfully retrieved percutaneously using a snare after straightening it with a pigtail catheter. Though majority of patients deny symptoms however, some do have symptoms or complications. Catheter fragment can lead to arrhythmias, thrombosis, infection and perforation. Thrombosis of coronary sinus is a life threatening complication. Regular follow up with Chest x ray may recognize the fracture and embolization much earlier. In almost all cases the migrated portion can be retrieved safely percutaneously without recourse to surgery.