Zentralblatt für Chirurgie
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Case Reports Comparative Study
[Knotted intravascular catheters--what should be done?].
Fixed intravasal catheters are mainly caused by knots. Removal can be achieved by intervention or surgical exploration, but this is associated with additional morbidity and mortality. ⋯ Most of all "lost" intravasal catheters are removed by radiological intervention; only one third needs open surgical therapy. These procedures are harmful for the patient and bear considerable risks for complications.