Background:
Central venous access devices for chemotherapy are being used extensively in patients with cancer. Spontaneous fracture and migration of the catheter is uncommon. We present the uncommon occurrence of a fracture and spontaneous migration of the fragment into the internal jugular vein as a delayed complication of a central venous access catheter implanted for chemotherapy administration.
Case report:
A patient with Ewing's sarcoma of the humerus with metastasis in the lungs underwent placement of a totally implantable venous access device. The port was in place for 1 year. The patient presented with pain in the right side of the neck. A chest X-ray demonstrated complete transection of the catheter and migration of the catheter fragment in the internal jugular vein. Both the migrated catheter fragment and the proximal part of the catheter were retrieved surgically. He had an uneventful recovery.
Conclusions:
Catheter fracture remains a potential complication, which must be recognized and treated promptly. Periodic chest imaging is recommended for detection and timely removal of the catheter.