# Percutaneous Endovascular Extraction of a Fractured Central Line Catheter From the Intracardiac Space Utilizing a Snare: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A woman had a broken central line catheter in her heart, which was safely removed using a snare through a minimally invasive procedure.

## Contribution

Demonstrates a successful and safe endovascular retrieval method for fractured central line catheters in the heart.

## Key findings

- A fractured catheter in the right atrium was successfully retrieved using a snare.
- The percutaneous endovascular approach was effective and complication-free.
- This case supports the use of endovascular techniques for intracardiac catheter fragments.

## Abstract

Fracture and migration of a central venous catheter is an uncommon but serious complication. Fragments can embolize to the right atrium or ventricle, potentially causing life-threatening arrhythmias, pseudoaneurysms, perforations, or thromboembolism. We present the case of a 44-year-old woman with a fractured catheter from a prior insertion for buccal mucosa carcinoma. Fluoroscopy revealed the fragment in the right atrium, and it was successfully retrieved via a percutaneous endovascular approach using a snare, without immediate complications. This case highlights the efficacy and safety of endovascular retrieval for such critical events.