Removal of a Knotted Flow-Directed Catheter by a Nonsurgical Method

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Abstract
Flow-directed balloon-tipped catheters have found extensive application in hemodynamic monitoring of critically ill patients. Knotting is a rare complication associated with their use (1-5). We describe a case in which knotting of a relatively large (7 French) balloon-tipped flow-directed (Swan-Ganz) catheter occurred. A simple nontraumatic method not previously described facilitated removal of the knotted catheter, obviating the need for surgery. A 62-year-old white man presented with severe congestive heart failure. His pulse was 78/min and blood pressure 112/70 mm Hg. Gross jugular venous distension, a prominent S3 gallop, and bilateral diffuse rales were noted. A chest roentgenogram revealed cardiomegaly and
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