A rare complication of a central venous catheter system (Port-a-Cath). A case report of a catheter embolization after catheter fracture during power training.

A 36 year old patient received an implantable central venous catheter system for a bone marrow transplantation. One year after the successful transplantation, embolization of the catheter was discovered by a routine x-ray three weeks after beginning of an exercise program with a spring expander including arm exercises. The catheter was removed without further complication via the vena femoralis. We assume that the cause for this incident was material fatigue due to pressure between clavicula and first rib possibly caused by strength training. We suggest as a consequence that patients with an implanted catheter system should before starting exercise consult a sports medicine specialist who would in turn cooperate with the specialist responsible for the catheter, so that an adequate and safe training program can be selected.