Spontaneous Catheter Fracture Leading to a Retained Fragment After Central Venous Access Port Removal: Should Preoperative Chest X-rays Be Obtained?

Key Points

• Retained fragments were identified in patients following catheter fracture, indicating potential surgical complications.
• In cases of central venous access port removal, 30% of patients experienced retained fragments due to catheter fracture.
• Observational analysis highlights the importance of chest x-rays to prevent retained catheter fragments during removal procedures.
• These findings suggest a need for preoperative imaging to enhance surgical outcomes and minimize risks.