A Stepwise Approach Utilizing a Double-Helix Wire Technique, Snare Capture and a Switch From a Transfemoral to Transradial Approach to Remove an Entrapped Balloon

Abstract

During an attempted PCI utilizing a femoral approach, a balloon became entrapped in the Left Circumflex Artery. Initial retrieval efforts including pulling the balloon and inflating a second balloon over the entrapment failed, the balloon fractured, and the distal end of the balloon apparatus migrated out of the guide catheter. We utilized a stepwise approach with a double helix wiring technique, snares and a change from a transfemoral to transradial approach to successfully retrieve the foreign bodies. This case highlights the importance of utilizing multiple techniques in series and understanding anatomical influences on equipment retrieval when single techniques and approaches fail.

Keywords: Balloon entrapment; Complications of PCI; PCI; Snaring; Switch of access site for coronary intervention.