CTICasesRetained Guide Wire (Post-Femoral Vein Cannulation)
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Imaging findings
A chest radiograph in a trauma patient, initially interpreted as unremarkable, showed a new linear opacity extending from bottom to top with a hooked end. A subsequent CT confirmed this to be a retained guide wire, visible within the mediastinum and central venous system.
Key takeaways
This case serves as a reminder to meticulously review all images, including unexpected findings on radiographs. Retained guide wires, often left behind during emergency procedures like femoral vein cannulation in trauma or code situations, can be easily overlooked if not specifically searched for. The hooked end is characteristic of a floppy J-tip guide wire.
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