An unexpected diagnosis of intravascular loss of guidewire after central venous catheterization - a case report

Hemodialysis is the dominant method of renal replacement therapy. The condition of its effectiveness is obtaining adequate vascular access, among others, central catheters. Central venous catheterization is a routine procedure, but it carries a risk of complications. An extremely rare but completely avoidable complication is the loss of the guidewire during the central venous catheterization procedure.

A case report: A 79-year-old patient, chronically hemodialyzed was admitted to the hospital to create vascular access. Previous vascular access, femoral central venous catheter was removed due to thrombosis. During hospitalization, angio-CT scan was performed, which showed the presence of a foreign body in the venous system, from the inguinal canal to the brachiocephalic vein. This structure turned out to be a guide, remaining after vein catheterization in the past. Complications during the procedure have never been reported. While bending her torso, the patient has been complaining of nonspecific pains in the neck area for 2 years. Part of the guide was extravascular in the upper mediastinum. The patient was consulted by a vascular surgeon, who due to the presence of the guidewire for a long time, recommended conservative treatment and regular follow-ups.

Conclusions: An extremely rare complication, which is the loss of the guide during insertion of a vascular catheter, can be avoided by strict adherence to procedures, mindfulness, occupational hygiene and by appropriate supervision of specialists over young doctors. The presented case of the patient proves that the guidewire left in the venous system may remain unnoticed for several years. In the described case, removal of a foreign body would be associated with extensive surgery and a high risk of vascular damage, therefore conservative treatment and regular check-ups were recommended.