Management of accidental fracture and embolization of intravenous cannula in peripheral veins using a novel J- Flap technique: A case series

The use of intravenous cannulas is a common procedure in healthcare. It's a common way of accessing the intravenous route for several purposes in patient care. Procedure is fraught with a significant risk of fracture and embolization of cannula that merits immediate intervention. There is paucity of well-defined techniques in literature for retrieval of such fractured cannulas from peripheral veins. A case series highlighting the use of a novel J-flap surgical technique in the management of fractured intravenous cannula in six (6) adult patients by the authors over a 24-month period. The intervention reduces or eliminates the risk of central embolization with its attendant severe consequences and invasive intervention. The learning curve of the technique seems gentle and does not need sophisticated surgical instrumentation.