Cotton fiber embolism

Abstract

Ten instances of cerebral cotton fiber embolism occurring during carotid angiography are added to the 5 cases previously recorded. Two additional examples of cotton fibers implanted at the sites of carotid puncture are also described. Because in most instances these have been chance microscopic discoveries, it seems certain that such emboli are far more frequent and more widely disseminated than is recognized. Suggestions are made for the elimination of this hazard.