Peripheral vascular complications of directional coronary atherectomy and stenting: predictors, management, and outcome

A new access site management tool: the Angio-Seal hemostatic puncture closure device

PURPOSE

Given the increasing number of percutaneously applied endovascular therapies, the incidence of access-related vascular complications can be expected to rise, particularly in association with those techniques requiring large sheaths or anticoagulation. The need exists for a safe, easy to use, and effective hemostatic technique to replace the labor-intensive method of manual compression.

METHODS

A bioabsorbable, sheath-delivered vascular device (Angio-Seal) has been developed that deposits a small collagen plug within the arterial wall to mechanically seal the puncture defect. An anchor connected by suture to the plug is first deployed in the arterial lumen and pulled flush against the interior wall to guard against intraluminal deposition of the collagen.

RESULTS

The Angio-Seal device was deployed successfully in 80 (96%) of 83 attempts involving common femoral arteries accessed for peripheral angioplasty (n = 30), coronary angiography (n = 30), and coronary angioplasty (n = 16). Three popliteal artery access sites and one femoropopliteal bypass graft were also treated. Hemostasis was immediate in 78 cases (98%); 2 sites required a 5-minute manual compression to effect a secure seal. Three devices failed to deploy, and manual pressure was used to close the puncture. Nondeployment did not cause any sequelae, and no complications were encountered with the technique.

CONCLUSIONS

This novel vascular closure device is quick (< 1 minute application time) and simple to use, providing a positive seal of common femoral artery puncture sites for both peripheral and coronary interventions. It appears to be a reliable alternative to standard manual hemostasis.

Retroperitoneal hematoma after cardiac catheterization: prevalence, risk factors, and optimal management

PURPOSE

Retroperitoneal hematoma is an unusual, but potentially serious, complication after cardiac catheterization. The predisposing factors, typical presentation, and clinical course of this iatrogenic complication are identified, and the role of surgery in its treatment is defined.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 9585 femoral artery catheterizations over a 5-year period allowed identification and evaluation of all patients with retroperitoneal hemorrhage.

RESULTS

Retroperitoneal hematoma developed in 45 patients (overall prevalence 0.5%), with the highest frequency after coronary artery stenting (3%). In the group of patients who underwent coronary artery stenting, statistically significant predictors of this complication included protocol for sheath removal, female sex, nadir platelet count, and excessive anticoagulation. Signs and symptoms included suprainguinal tenderness and fullness in 100%, severe back and lower quadrant pain in 64%, and femoral neuropathy in 36%. Most patients were treated successfully with transfusion alone. Seven patients (16%) required operation; in four, hypotension unresponsive to volume resuscitation developed early after catheterization; and, in three, a progressive fall in hematocrit level led to surgery 24 to 72 hours after catheterization.

CONCLUSIONS

Retroperitoneal hematoma after cardiac catheterization can usually be treated by transfusion alone. A small subset of patients who have development of hypotension unresponsive to volume resuscitation require urgent operation.