Sonography-Guided Endovascular Retrieval of Fractured Angiocatheter in Brachial Artery: A Case Report

Abstract

Background The insertion of an angiocatheter into a peripheral artery for continuous hemodynamic monitoring is a widely employed clinical practice. Fracture of a angiocatheter retained in an artery, though infrequent, presents a challenge in clinical management, particularly in critically ill patients. Surgical exploration for retrieval is generally required, as fluoroscopy-guided endovascular methods are precluded due to the radiolucency of catheters. Case report This case report demonstrates the successful retrieval of a fractured catheter from the brachial artery of an 85-year-old critically ill patient through the utilization of endovascular techniques guided by sonography. Key considerations include selecting an appropriate snare system diameter and ensuring real-time sonographic visualization to prevent displacement of the fractured segment. Conclusion This case illustrates the feasibility and safety of sonography-guided endovascular retrieval as an alternative to surgical intervention for fractured angiocatheters. The proposed strategy demonstrates its applicability in similar clinical scenarios.