Entrapment of a Swan-Ganz catheter

J Chin Med Assoc. 2007 May;70(5):213-4. doi: 10.1016/S1726-4901(09)70360-0.

Abstract

Failure to withdraw a catheter is related primarily to catheter entrapment or knotting. Placement of a Swan-Ganz catheter is associated with various complications, one of which is entrapment. Entrapment of a Swan-Ganz catheter in the heart, vena cava, or pulmonary artery is a very rare and serious complication that may lead to life-threatening complications if not treated appropriately. Most reported cases of catheter entrapment have been associated with surgical sutures, artificial valves, or abnormal cardiac anatomy. Here we report a rare case of Swan-Ganz catheter entrapment resulting from inserting an excessive length of Swan-Ganz catheter into the heart. The catheter was removed smoothly under fluoroscopic guidance.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Catheterization, Swan-Ganz / adverse effects*
  • Catheterization, Swan-Ganz / instrumentation
  • Humans
  • Intraoperative Complications / etiology*
  • Intraoperative Complications / therapy
  • Male