The left atrial catheter: its uses and complications

Radiology. 1992 Nov;185(2):611-2. doi: 10.1148/radiology.185.2.1410383.

Abstract

The authors describe the radiographic appearance of the left atrial catheter, a widely used postsurgical intracardiac device. Recognition of the characteristic appearance of this catheter should be of value in detection of potential complications, including line fracture with resultant retention and/or embolization, infection, prosthetic valve dysfunction, and even cardiac tamponade.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Cardiac Catheterization / instrumentation*
  • Catheters, Indwelling* / adverse effects
  • Equipment Failure
  • Foreign Bodies / diagnostic imaging*
  • Foreign Bodies / etiology
  • Heart Atria
  • Heart* / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*