Fracture and Embolization of a Peripherally Inserted Central Venous Catheter

Abstract

A case is presented of the fracture and embolization of a peripherally inserted central venous catheter. This novel complication is discussed in the context of patients in alternate care settings with emphasis on retrieval of the embolized catheter fragment, morbidity of catheter embolization, and precautions against inadvertent fracture in the home care setting.