Excimer laser coronary atherectomy for the successful retrieval of an isolated guidewire entrapped in a severely calcified vessel

Background Entrapment of an interventional guidewire during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is rare. Several different techniques may be utilized for retrieval. Case presentation An 81-year-old male with multi-vessel disease underwent PCI for unstable angina when a guidewire became entrapped. Neither balloon or micro catheters, or various wires could cross. Manual pull was ineffective. Intravascular ultrasound imaging did not cross but demonstrated heavily calcified plaque. Shockwave lithotripsy was unsuccessful. Excimer laser coronary atherectomy (ELCA) was performed proximally for lesion modification. Rapturously, the entrapped guidewire was successfully dislodged and safely retrieved. Conclusion A progressive approach for entrapped wires should be employed. ELCA may be an effective strategy for entrapped guidewire retrieval.