Arterial line fracture: an unusual complication of invasive blood pressure monitoring

Abstract

Arterial lines are routinely used for haemodynamic monitoring in critically ill patients and they are associated with a low incidence of major complications. We present a case of radial arterial cannula fracture which necessitated surgical removal. Ultrasound played a crucial role in both identifying the cannula fragment and aiding surgical retrieval. Arterial line fracture is a rare complication of arterial cannulation but patient safety could be improved through a revision of how cannulas are secured to prevent kinking, fatigue and subsequent fracture. We suggest arterial lines should have marked or coloured tips to aid practitioners in ensuring the entire cannula length is removed with the distal tip intact.