Fluoroscopy-guided repositioning of central venous catheters using a guide wire with movable core.

Purpose: A simple method to redirect malpositioned central venous catheters using a guide wire with movable core is described. Methods: A 0.89 mm guide wire with movable core is inserted into the catheter. The core is withdrawn for a few centimeters producing a floppy wire tip segment, which follows the malpositioned course of the catheter. The core is then advanced in smalt steps, until the catheter tip flips into the correct vein. Results: in 8 cases rapid repositioning of malpositioned catheters was accomplished with this technique, without moving the catheters at the entry site. Conclusions: The repositioning technique described is simple, fast, and inexpensive. Movement of the catheter at the entrance site is not necessary, thus not jeopardizing sterility, and without the need to solve the suture fixation.