RETAINED INTRAVASCULAR CATHETER FRAGMENT AT REMOVAL OF IMPLANTABLE VASCULAR ACCESS DEVICE: INCIDENCE, RISK FACTORS, AND OUTCOMES

Retrospective study of 654 IVAD removals in pediatric patients found retained catheter fragments occurred in 0.92% of cases, with line duration identified as the primary risk factor (OR 3.5 per year). All cases occurred in patients aged 6-17 years, highlighting the need for careful monitoring of long-term central venous access devices in children.