Pulmonary Embolization of Radiolucent Intravenous Cannula: Endovascular Retrieval

Fracture and embolization of peripheral intravenous cannula is very rare. Although endovascular retrieval is the standard of care for most of the embolized intravascular devices, endovascular management of embolized peripheral intravenous cannula is technically difficult due to its radiolucent nature and it is not described previously in the literature. We describe the clinical presentation, imaging findings, and endovascular management in a middle aged male who had fractured peripheral intravenous cannula which was embolized into the pulmonary artery branch. Technical nuances associated with retrieval of this radiolucent little plastic tube have been discussed.

Right Atrial Thrombus in a Patient of Rheumatic Heart Disease with Severe Mitral Regurgitation: A Rare Association

Conclusion: Treating physicians should be aware of the possibility of right atrial thrombus in rheumatic mitral valve disease because of its clinical implications, like life-threatening pulmonary embolization and need of surgical management.

Surgery for Tricuspid Valve Endocarditis in the Current Era

Tricuspid valve endocarditis (TVE) continues to be on the rise and has been mostly attributed to the growing epidemic of intravenous drug abuse (IVDA). Other risk factors include long-term indwelling central venous catheters and implantable cardiac devices. While medical management continues to be the first line therapy, surgery is indicated when medical management fails, and in the presence of hemodynamic deterioration, recurrent septic pulmonary embolization and/or persistent sepsis. Tricuspid valve (TV) excision once was the main surgical strategy, but other options include TV repair/reconstruction and replacement. Remaining challenges include management of drug-induced endocarditis and the best strategy for recurrent infection.