Entrapment of the introducing sheath of a pulmonary artery catheter

Abstract

We report an unusual complication of pulmonary artery catheterisation related to the removal of the pulmonary artery catheter introducing sheath. The sheath had been accidentally tethered to the suture line of the superior vena cava following cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. Physicians and nurses should abandon attempts to remove the pulmonary artery catheter or the introducing sheath after cardiac surgery if any resistance is noted. Minimal force might result in serious morbidity or death.