Experience with new retrieval forceps for foreign body removal in the vascular, urinary, and biliary systems.

A new type of foreign body retrieval forceps recently has become available. It consists of single- or multiple-tooth forceps mounted on a flexible stainless steel 0.038-inch shaft. The authors have successfully used this device in the vascular system (three cases), in the urinary tract (seven cases), and in the biliary system (two cases) without complications. Foreign bodies removed include a catheter fragment, angiographic guide wire, detachable balloon, stone retrieval basket, and various stents. All the procedures were performed quickly and without difficulty. For the authors, these forceps have become the first choice in many retrieval situations.