Back to basics: iatrogenic intravenous cannula embolus

Abstract

We present a case of distal venous embolisation of a peripheral intravenous cannula tip that had lost its structural integrity through repeated failed attempts of insertion of the same cannula, contrary to protocols for intravenous access. Radiological imaging confirmed the presence of a foreign body in the middle finger and the patient was brought to theatre. A 2.2cm long catheter tube was removed via a venotomy from the dorsal digital vein.