Catheter-directed thrombolysis for thrombi in right atrium and upper extremity caused by peripherally inserted central catheters

Abstract

Introduction: Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) are widely applied in clinical practice. One of the foremost complications is the potential risk for thrombosis associated with their use. Especially the thrombi within the cardiac chambers are rarely observed in clinical practice, but they are potentially deadly to patients for pulmonary embolism. There are no evidencebased guidelines for their treatment, and the optimal treatment is controversial (conservative or positive). Case Report: We report the case of a 52-year-old female, who presented with both a right atrial thrombus and upper extremity deep vein thrombi on three days following PICC insertion. After an elaborate surgery with two catheters for thrombolysis and one filter for prevention of pulmonary embolism, the thrombi were dissolved effectively without occurrence of any complications. Conclusion: In summary, regarding the treatment choice of complex thrombi in both right atrium and upper extremity, with the development of vascular surgery and interventional equipment, interventional treatment might be a well-tolerated therapeutic option. The ingenious surgical design of two catheters for thrombolysis and one filter for prevention of pulmonary embolism highlights a safe and feasible treatment for this kind of thrombi with minimal trauma.