Fracture and embolization of an implantable venous access device in patient with atrial septal defect

Abstract

Totally implantable venous access devices (TIVADs) are frequently used for the administration of chemotherapy or parenteral nutrition and have proved to be safe and improve patient quality of life during treatment. Catheter-related infections are the most common complication, whereas catheter fracture and embolization is rarely seen. We present a case of a 61-year-old cancer patient in which the TIVAD fractured and embolized to the patient’s left knee 18 months after its initial placement. An endovascular procedure with intraoperative imaging revealed that the catheter had embolized to the popliteal artery and was successfully removed, the only explanation being the presence of an atrial septal defect. A bubble echocardiogram was unsuccessful in confirming the diagnosis. The catheter fracture could be related to an intravascular procedure that was performed 18 months prior to remove fibrin sheaths as a cause of port malfunction, or it could be a case of pinch-off syndrome.