Successful retrieval of an embolised intracardiac umbilical venous catheter fragment in a 1190 gm preterm

Abstract

Umbilical venous catheters (UVC) can be lifesaving in preterms and sick neonates. Although safe and effective, they are prone to various rare complications, most importantly, embolization of catheter fragments. We report a case of accidental transection of an UVC that was lodged in the left atrium appendage (LAA), with its inferior end within the inferior vena cava (IVC) and a challenging, however, successful retrieval using an EN Snare Catheter technique with improvised use of a Fogarty Balloon. To our knowledge, our case is the first reported in East Africa.