Successful Retrieval of Dislodged Coronary Stents: A Case Series of Three Complex Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Procedures

Stent dislodgment and embolization are uncommon complications of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) that can lead to serious adverse effects if retrieval is not achieved. This case series presents three instances of stent dislodgment during PCI in patients who underwent PCI for varied coronary artery disease presentations. In each case, stent dislodgment occurred due to different factors, including failed balloon inflation, inadequate stent approximation, and expansion. Despite the complexity of these cases, involving multivessel disease and prior bypass grafts, all dislodged stents were successfully retrieved using a snare or specialized device. No subsequent complications were observed, and all patients had favorable outcomes. The series highlights the effectiveness of nonsurgical approaches, particularly the snare method, in managing stent dislodgment. It also emphasizes the importance of proper lesion preparation, appropriate stent sizing, and operator familiarity with retrieval techniques. The successful management of these cases demonstrates that with prompt recognition and appropriate interventions, the risks associated with stent dislodgment can be mitigated, potentially reducing the need for more invasive surgical procedures.