A Drop of Danger: A Subtle Sign of an Entrapped Pulmonary Artery Catheter
Abstract
Awareness of potential complications associated with a pulmonary artery catheter (PAC) is essential to minimize the risk of adverse outcomes. Entrapment of a PAC is an uncommon but serious event, most frequently reported during cardiac surgery. However, it is usually recognized postoperatively when resistance is encountered during catheter repositioning or removal. Once identified, management often necessitates re-operation, although percutaneous techniques may be used in some cases. This report presents an atypical case of PAC entrapment, emphasizing the importance of early detection and outlining strategies for prevention in the intraoperative period.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Hemodynamic Monitoring and Therapy
Non-Invasive Vital Sign Monitoring
Vascular Procedures and Complications
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Cureus
- Volume
- 18
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- e101455–e101455
- Publication date
- 13 January 2026
- Language
- EN