“Pigtail through snare” technique: an easy and fast way to retrieve a catheter fragment with inaccessible ends

Abstract Background A catheter fragment with inaccessible ends can be retrieved using the well-known two-step method: making a free end pigtail and seizing it snare catheter. Here we propose an easier faster modification, named “pigtail through snare” technique. Case presentation 61-year-old female patient underwent removal of central venous migrating to right atrium. Both located in atrial appendage left hepatic vein were inaccessible. Initially, loop was opened inferior vena cava advanced hook fragment. The created by pulling catheter, dragged automatically into loop, grasped, immediately. Conclusions By passing advance, snaring maneuver becomes easy fast retrieving ends.