Endovascular retrieval of foreign body in persistent left-sided superior vena cava

Abstract

Endovascular retrieval of a foreign body is becoming an increasingly common procedure in the management of complications resulting from more frequent endovascular procedures. Many procedures are performed on a regular basis in assessment of vascular anatomy, endovascular-guided therapy, and catheter placement. This case report depicts a complication of a chemoport placement resulting in a foreign body. Evaluation of the foreign body raised attention to aberrant anatomy, a persistent left-sided superior vena cava. We further discuss briefly the embryology behind a persistent left-sided superior vena cava, technical errors leading to the foreign body, and assessing the nature of the foreign body through different imaging modalities. This is followed by the subsequent endovascular retrieval by Interventional Radiology and a literature review and individual case assessment of endovascular foreign body retrieval. We discuss considerations for practice based upon our literature review. Keywords: Superior vena cava, Persistent, Endovascular, Chemoport, Interventional radiology, Aberrant anatomy