Removal of a ruptured, detached, and entrapped angioplasty balloon after coronary stenting.

Entrapment of balloon catheters after coronary angioplasty or stent implantation is a complication during these procedures. We describe the removal of a ruptured angioplasty balloon which had become disconnected from the proximal shaft of the balloon catheter and entrapped after coronary stenting by using a 4 mm Amplatz "Goose Neck" Microsnare retrieval system (Microvena, White Bear Lake, Minnesota). The retrieval was accomplished without any complications. Retrieval systems should be on hand in all interventional catheterization laboratories.