Radiological features and management of retained needles

Abstract

The identification of retained needles is essential because of their sharp structure with possible life-threatening complications. However, radiological evaluation could be challenging, especially in case of needles’ relatively poor conspicuity and small dimension. This pictorial essay focuses on clinical issues (needle features, retention mechanisms and associated complications) and technical aspects (choice of the best diagnostic modality and technique) that can lead the radiologist to an earlier and proper diagnosis of needle retention in order to provide the best treatment for the patient.

Exploring the uncommon: Unusual instance of retained fractured needles in a patient of intravenous drugs abuse

“…Retained needles can be challenging to identify due to their small dimensions, in the context of a clinical history that can be unreliable [8] . For superficial soft tissues, ultrasonography is well established in identifying radiolucent foreign bodies, and has comparable efficacy to CT in identifying radiopaque foreign bodies, while being timelier and more cost-effective.…”

Radiological Reporting of Urgencies Related to Medical Devices: Commentary on a Possible Systematic Approach

“…All medical devices interact with the surrounding tissues with different modalities according to their shape and, when present, to the strength of impact. Tissue laceration and parenchymal fractures are more frequent when the injury is induced by a device with a sharp morphology, such as catheters or needles [ 9 ] ( Figure 7 ), and in the case of strong impacts. When the device has a rounded morphology, penetration is less common; however, the kinetic energy transmitted during impact may lead to the formation of contusive areas or hematomas in the injured tissue.…”