Removal of a fragment of catheter entrapped in a Bjork-Shiley aortic valvular prosthesis. Transarterial approach using a modified loop-snare technique.

Fracture of a left atrial catheter made of polyethylene and its subsequent embolization and entrapment in a Bjork-Shiley aortic valvular prosthesis is reported in a 62-year-old woman. The entrapped fragment of the catheter was retrieved by a transarterial approach using a homemade modified snare-loop device. Measures to prevent such a complication should be directed towards avoidance of force when removing such catheters. In addition, their length should be determined prior to insertion and again after removal, in order to detect their possible fracture and loss at once.