# A Drop of Danger: A Subtle Sign of an Entrapped Pulmonary Artery Catheter

## TL;DR

This paper discusses a rare but serious complication of pulmonary artery catheter entrapment during surgery and highlights the need for early detection and prevention strategies.

## Contribution

The paper presents an atypical case of PAC entrapment and emphasizes intraoperative prevention strategies.

## Key findings

- PAC entrapment is uncommon but serious, often requiring re-operation.
- Early detection during surgery can prevent postoperative complications.
- Percutaneous techniques may be used in some cases to manage entrapment.

## Abstract

Awareness of potential complications associated with a pulmonary artery catheter (PAC) is essential to minimize the risk of adverse outcomes. Entrapment of a PAC is an uncommon but serious event, most frequently reported during cardiac surgery. However, it is usually recognized postoperatively when resistance is encountered during catheter repositioning or removal. Once identified, management often necessitates re-operation, although percutaneous techniques may be used in some cases. This report presents an atypical case of PAC entrapment, emphasizing the importance of early detection and outlining strategies for prevention in the intraoperative period.