Percutaneous retrieval of a port-a-cath using a pigtail catheter combined with snaring technique

Abstract

We present a case of a 63-year-old woman who underwent chemotherapy for breast cancer through a port-a-cath inserted in left subclavian vein. The device was withdrawn one year later due to jugular vein thrombosis plus dysfunction of the device. A few years later a chest X-ray for scrutinizing dyspnea showed a catheter located in right heart chambers. Percutaneous retrieval via right subclavian vein was planned. Both catheter ends were impacted against heart structures and were not free to be easily captured by a snare. By using a pig-tail catheter we were able to seize the catheters loop portion and pull it back slightly. Once the catheter ends became free we seized one of the catheter's distal ends with a snare and successfully externalised it.

Keywords: Pig-tail; Port-a-cath; Snare.