[Catheter fracture and embolization: a rare complication of a permanent implanted intravenous catheter system].
An implantable venous access system was used in a 55-year-old woman with metastatic breast cancer for the delivery of chemotherapy. Four months after implantation the catheter was resistant to the injection of fluids. A chest X-ray showed fracture of the catheter with embolisation to the right pulmonary artery. Analysis of the fractured catheter after removal showed that the fracture was caused by catheter pinch-off. Catheter pinch-off is caused by friction of the catheter between the clavicle and the first rib. The incidence of this rare complication is estimated at 0.1-1%. The incidence of catheter pinch-off can be reduced by a lateral insertion technique and by radiographic monitoring after implantation.
Medisch Centrum Haaglanden, afd. Heelkunde, Leidschendam.
J W
JW
Mazel
F J
FJ
Idenburg
O M
OM
van Delden
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology; D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004617:Embolism / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D004868:Equipment Failure; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D013902:Radiography, Thoracic; D012086:Reoperation; D013350:Subclavian Vein / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents