Percutaneous transvascular retrieval of the dislodged port-A catheter using En snare system via femoral vein approach

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of percutaneous transvascular retrieval of the dislodged port-A catheter using En snare system via femoral vein approach. From Feb. 2006 to Dec. 2008, percutaneous transvascular retrievals of 26 dislodged port-A catheters in 25 patients were done. All retrievals were performed with En snare system with or without pigtail catheters under fluoroscopic guidance through a 10 Fr. vascular sheath in right femoral vein. Twenty of total 26 procedures were performed on the outpatient basis. The characteristics of the 25 patients (26 retrieval procedures) were recorded. Pearson correlation and scatter plot were made to display the correlation between the retrieval procedure time, duration of implantation and delay retrieval, respectively. Percutaneous retrievals of the dislodged port-A catheters were successful in all 26 procedures (100%). No significant correlation was statistically found between the retrieval procedure time, and both the duration of port-A catheter implantation and delay retrieval. Patients tolerated the procedures well and there was no major complication except wound pain in one patient on the day of the procedure. Percutaneous transvascular retrieval of dislodged port-A catheter is a safe, rapid and reliable technique that can obviate the need for major surgical procedures. If the patient's condition is stable, it can be performed on the outpatient basis.