A Retained Microcatheter Fragment in the middle cerebral artery: report of a rare complication

Abstract

Mechanical thrombectomy is now a recommended treatment for large vessel occlusion in acute ischemic stroke. However, it is associated with a number of complications, which need to be minimized and effectively managed to maximize the benefits of thrombectomy. We describe an unusual and rare complication of microcatheter fracture after a successful thrombectomy for middle cerebral artery occlusion. Due to a lack of possibilities to remove it, we decided to manage it conservatively. Subsequently, the microcatheter fragment did not interrupt normal blood flow through the artery, and the patient has been doing well without neurological sequelae. Systematic reporting of such complications will aid in the design and development of thrombectomy devices in the future.