Successful removal of metalic foreign body from brain and internal carotid artery with a platinum-Cobalt magnet alloy

Abstract

Two successful removals of metalic foreign body with a platinum-Cobalt magnet alloy (Pt-Co magnet) which has a size of 4×4 mm and is capable of lifting 120 g of weight were reported, one a metal fragment from the brain via a inlet track, and the other a needle from the internal carotid artery. A metal piece of motorcycle was accidentally flew in which was demonstrated by X-ray examination of the skull. Pt-Co magnet was inserted into the entrance hole on the right eyebrow under fluoroscopic control. The metal fragment of 20×4×1 mm size was pulled out with minimal damage to the surrounding brain tissues. The other was the accidental breakage of a needle tip during carotid angiography. A needle tip remained in the internal carotid artery at cranial base was successfully removed with a Pt-Co magnet inserted through the previous injection site.