Endovascular Retrieval of a Peeled-Off Fragment of a Hydrophilic Guidewire Embolized Into the Pulmonary Artery Using a Unique Loop-Snare Torque-Entanglement Technique

Pulmonary vascular embolization of the stripped coating of a hydrophilic guidewire is a rare complication. Endovascular retrieval is preferred over surgical treatment or conservative management. Most of the commonly used endovascular retrieval techniques fall short when the foreign body does not present a free edge to grab. There are a few innovative techniques that can be applied to retrieve such difficult foreign bodies. This case report describes a unique loop-snare torque-entanglement technique for the retrieval of such a foreign body out of the pulmonary vasculature.