Arteriotomy Closure Devices for Cardiovascular Procedures

Assessment of the MANTA closure device in real-life transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A single-centre observational study

BACKGROUND

Vascular complications increase morbidity and mortality in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Data involving suture-based percutaneous vascular closure devices (VCDs) have been extensive. Although promising, data regarding the efficacy and safety of the MANTA VCD (Teleflex) are scarce. We sought to assess the safety and effectiveness of the MANTA device in a real-life unselected cohort of patients undergoing transfemoral-TAVR (TF-TAVR).

METHODS

This single-center retrospective observational study included a cohort of consecutive patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) treated by our team using TAVR between January 2020 to December 2022. The primary outcome measure was access-related major and minor vascular complications according to the Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC-3) definition criteria.

RESULTS

From January 2020 to December 2022, a total of 347 patients underwent TF-TAVR were treated using the MANTA 18 Fr VCD system for vascular closure. Mean age was 82.4 ± 6.1 years (56-98 years). There were no significant differences in preoperative and procedural characteristics between patients with and without VCD-related major vascular complications. Access site-related major and minor vascular complications occurred in 20 of 347 patients (5.7%). Overall, major vascular complications occurred in 5 patients (1.4%) and device failure was seen in 17 patients (4.9%).

CONCLUSION

This French real world evaluation of large-bore arteriotomy closure in TF-TAVR indicated that MANTA VCD is a feasible alternative with an acceptable low rate of access-site-related complications.

Analysis of Determinants for Suture-mediated Closure Device Failure During EVAR Procedures

OBJECTIVE

Endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) for elective and emergency infrarenal aortic pathologies is the primary approach for treatment nowadays. During such procedure, the suture-mediated closure device (SMCD) (Perclose ProGlideTM, Abbott Laboratories, Chicago, IL, USA) is commonly used. This study aimed to identify potential contributors for SMCD failure in a patient cohort of elective and emergency EVAR.

METHODS

Archived medical records from patients who underwent EVAR for aortic pathologies in elective and emergency setting at the University Hospital Düsseldorf, Germany were included. Patient's co-morbidities, access vessel morphologies and hemostasis-related blood parameters were evaluated on their association with SMCD failure applying different statistical methods.

RESULTS

A total of 71 patients (139 femoral accesses) was included. The mean age was 73.5 ± 8.4 years. Overall SMCD failure rate was 4.3%, 4.1% for elective and 5.9% for emergency cases, respectively. Total procedure time was longer for the SMCD failure group (323 ± 117.8 min vs 171 ± 43.7 min). The calcification status of the common femoral artery (CFA), the diameter of the aortic bifurcation, and dual anti-platelet therapy (DAPT) on the medication plan prior to the procedure were associated with SMCD failure. Univariate binary logistic regression analysis nominated several potentially relevant predictors for SMCD failure who underwent subsequent multivariable binary logistic regression analysis. Here, DAPT on the medication plan was identified as being promising in predicting SMCD failure (OR 30.5), while anterior plaque formation in the CFA maintained as only statistically relevant determinant (OR 44.9).

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the CFA calcification status to be associated with SMCD failure. Although discontinued prior to endovascular treatment, DAPT was also found to be associated with SMCD failure. Our results may advocate to perform obligatory platelet testing prior to EVAR to maximize patient safety.

Real-time ultrasound-guided hemostasis using suture-mediated closure device

PURPOSE

Suture-mediated hemostasis device takes a long time to train and have limitations in finding appropriate compression point depending on the tactile sense of the hands. If the appropriate compression point is determined using ultrasound and the instrument is used under ultrasound guidance, it is expected to reduce the technical failure and additional manual compression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included 104 patients in whom the ProGlide vascular closure device (Abbott Vascular, Redwood City, CA, USA) was deployed to close common femoral artery access between January 2022 and June 2022. Ultrasound-guided hemostasis was performed in 54 patients and 50 conventional hemostasis was performed. We analyzed the medical records (procedure, patient body mass index, coagulation function, visual imaging, ultrasound imaging, time to achieve hemostasis) and post-treatment medical records (progress records, nursing records) to investigate the technical success rate and complications (hematoma, pseudoaneurysm formation, SFA occlusion, access site infection) of the procedure.

RESULTS

Technical success rate was 52/54 (Ultrasound guided group) and 47/50 (conventional group), respectively (p > 0.05). Mean hemostasis time was 271 s (US guided group) and 317 s (conventional group), respectively (p > 0.05). Additional manual compression was applied in 7/54 (US guided group) and 15/50 (conventional group) (p < 0.05). In both groups, complications such as hematoma formation, access site infection and SFA occlusion did not occur.

CONCLUSION

Using ultrasound guidance when using the suture mediated closing device reduces the frequency of additional manual compression without increased risk of complication.

Complications of catheter ablation for ventricular tachycardia

With the increasing literature demonstrating benefits of catheter ablation for ventricular tachycardia (VT), the number of patients undergoing VT ablation has increased dramatically. As VT ablation is being performed more routinely, operators must be aware of potential complications of VT ablation. This review delves deeper into the practice of VT ablation with a focus on periprocedural complications.

Femoral Vascular Closure Devices and Bleeding, Hemostasis, and Ambulation Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Background The effectiveness of vascular closure devices (VCDs) to reduce bleeding after transfemoral percutaneous coronary intervention remains unsettled. Methods and Results Participants in the REGULATE-PCI (Effect of the REG1 anticoagulation system versus bivalirudin on outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention) trial who underwent transfemoral percutaneous coronary intervention with VCD implantation were compared with those who underwent manual compression. The primary effectiveness end point was type 2, 3, or 5 Bleeding Academic Research Consortium access site bleeding at day 3. Univariate and multivariate analyses were adjusted by the inverse probability weighting method using propensity score. Time to hemostasis and time to ambulation were compared between groups. Of the 1580 patients who underwent transfemoral percutaneous coronary intervention, 1004 (63.5%) underwent VCD implantation and 576 (36.5%) had manual compression. The primary effectiveness end point occurred in 64 (6.4%) participants in the VCD group and in 38 (6.6%) participants in the manual compression group (inverse probability weighting-adjusted odds ratio, 1.02 [95% CI, 0.77-1.36]; P=0.89). There were statistically significant 2-way interactions between VCD use and female sex, chronic kidney disease, and use of high-potency P2Y12 inhibition (ticagrelor or prasugrel) (P<0.05 for all) with less bleeding with VCD use in these high-risk subgroups. Median time to hemostasis and time to ambulation were shorter in the VCD versus the manual compression group (P<0.01 for both). Conclusions Following transfemoral percutaneous coronary intervention, VCD use is associated with a shorter time to hemostasis and time to ambulation but not less bleeding. Further study of patients with high-bleeding risk is required, including women, patients with chronic kidney disease, and those using high-potency P2Y12 inhibitors. Registration URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01848106; Unique identifier: NCT01848106.

Vascular Closure Devices versus Manual Compression in Cardiac Interventional Procedures: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Backgrounds

Manual compression (MC) and vascular closure device (VCD) are two methods of vascular access site hemostasis after cardiac interventional procedures. However, there is still controversial over the use of them and a lack of comprehensive and systematic meta-analysis on this issue.

Methods

Original articles comparing VCD and MC in cardiac interventional procedures were searched in PubMed, EMbase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science through April 2022. Efficacy, safety, patient satisfaction, and other parameters were assessed between two groups. Heterogeneity among studies was evaluated by I² index and the Cochran Q test, respectively. Publication bias was assessed using the funnel plot and Egger's test.

Results

A total of 32 studies were included after screening with inclusion and exclusion criteria (33481 patients). This meta-analysis found that VCD resulted in shorter time to hemostasis, ambulation, and discharge (p < 0.00001). In terms of vascular complication risks, VCD group might be associated with a lower risk of major complications (p = 0.0001), but the analysis limited to randomized controlled trials did not support this result (p = 0.68). There was no significant difference in total complication rates (p = 0.08) and bleeding-related complication rates (p = 0.05) between the two groups. Patient satisfaction was higher in VCD group (p = 0.002). Meta-regression analysis revealed no specific covariate as an influencing factor for above results (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Compared with MC, the use of VCDs significantly shortens the time of hemostasis and allows earlier ambulation and discharge, meanwhile without increase in vascular complications. In addition, use of VCDs achieves higher patient satisfaction and leads cost savings for patients and institutions.

Comparison of a Pure Plug-Based versus a Primary Suture-Based Vascular Closure Device Strategy for Transfemoral Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: The CHOICE-CLOSURE Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is an established treatment option for patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS), and is most commonly performed through the transfemoral access route. Percutaneous access site closure can be achieved using dedicated plug-based or suture-based vascular closure device (VCD) strategies, but randomized comparative studies are scarce. Methods: The CHOICE-CLOSURE (Randomized Comparison of CatHeter-based Strategies fOr Interventional ACcess SitE CLOSURE during Transfemoral Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation) trial is an investigator-initiated, multicenter study, in which patients undergoing transfemoral TAVR were randomly assigned to vascular access site closure using either a pure plug-based technique (MANTA, Teleflex, Wayne, Pennsylvania) with no additional VCDs or a primary suture-based technique (ProGlide, Abbott Vascular, Abbott Park, Illinois) potentially complemented by a small-plug. The primary endpoint consisted of access-site or access-related major and minor vascular complications during index hospitalization, defined according to the Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 criteria. Secondary endpoints included the rate of access-site or access-related bleeding, VCD failure, and time to hemostasis Results: A total of 516 patients were included and randomized. The mean age of the study population was 80.5±6.1 years, 55.4% were male, 7.6% of patients had peripheral vascular disease, and the mean Society of Thoracic Surgeons score was 4.1±2.9%. The primary endpoint occurred in 19.4% (50/258) of the pure plug-based group and 12.0% (31/258) of the primary suture-based group (relative risk [RR]: 1.61, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07-2.44, p=0.029). Access-site or access-related bleeding occurred in 11.6% vs. 7.4% (RR: 1.58, 95%CI: 0.91-2.73, p=0.133) and device failure in 4.7% vs. 5.4% (RR: 0.86, 95%CI: 0.40-1.82, p=0.841) in the respective groups. Time to hemostasis was significantly shorter in the pure plug-based group (80 [32, 180] vs. 240 [174, 316] seconds, p<0.001). Conclusions: Among patients treated with transfemoral TAVR, a pure plug-based vascular closure technique using the MANTA VCD is associated with a higher rate of access-site or access-related vascular complications but a shorter time to hemostasis compared to a primary suture-based technique using the ProGlide VCD.

SCAI expert consensus update on best practices in the cardiac catheterization laboratory: This statement was endorsed by the American College of Cardiology (ACC), the American Heart Association (AHA), and the Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) in April 2021

The current document commissioned by the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) and endorsed by the American College of Cardiology, the American Heart Association, and Heart Rhythm Society represents a comprehensive update to the 2012 and 2016 consensus documents on patient-centered best practices in the cardiac catheterization laboratory. Comprising updates to staffing and credentialing, as well as evidence-based updates to the pre-, intra-, and post-procedural logistics, clinical standards and patient flow, the document also includes an expanded section on CCL governance, administration, and approach to quality metrics. This update also acknowledges the collaboration with various specialties, including discussion of the heart team approach to management, and working with electrophysiology colleagues in particular. It is hoped that this document will be utilized by hospitals, health systems, as well as regulatory bodies involved in assuring and maintaining quality, safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of patient throughput in this high volume area.

Comparison of radial versus femoral access using hemostatic devices following percutaneous coronary intervention

Arterial access site complications are the important predictor of successful percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). We prospectively studied 722 consecutive PCI patients for access site complications. A total of 303 trans-femoral access (TFA) patients who had suture based vascular closure devices (VCD) were compared with 419 transradial access (TRA) patients. Incidence of hematoma was more in TFA (2.3% vs 0.23%, p 0.01). Median ambulation time (4 h vs 1 h, p < 0.01) was significantly higher in TFA. In conclusion, TRA had fewer access site complications like haematoma, compared to TFA with VCD. TRA also resulted in earlier ambulation and discharge, compared to TFA with VCD.

A Case of Puncture-Site Giant Pseudoaneurysm Following Recanalization Therapy for Acute Ischemic Stroke: Marked Growth and Rupture of a Femoral Artery Pseudoaneurysm

Objective

We report a case of the marked growth and rupture of a giant femoral artery pseudoaneurysm at the puncture site that developed after recanalization therapy for acute basilar artery occlusion.

Case Presentation

A 79-year-old woman developed acute ischemic stroke due to atherosclerotic basilar artery occlusion. Endovascular intervention was performed and recanalization of the affected vessel was achieved. However, she developed brainstem infarction and consciousness disturbance persisted. The femoral access site was treated using a vascular closure device at the end of the procedure. A right femoral artery pseudoaneurysm of approximately 5 cm in size was found 2 weeks after onset during the examination for deep venous thrombosis with right lower extremity edema. Manual compression did not achieve thrombotic occlusion of the aneurysm due to obesity and leg edema. Considering the severe neurological status of the patient, the pseudoaneurysm was followed up without surgical treatment. Dual antiplatelet therapy and direct oral anticoagulant agents were administered. Four weeks after onset, the pseudoaneurysm presented rapid growth, and on the 35th day after onset, it exceeded 15 cm in size and ruptured, causing hemorrhagic shock with massive femoral hematoma. Pseudoaneurysm resection and hematoma removal were performed surgically, and the patient recovered. However, improvement of neurological manifestations was poor and the modified Rankin Scale at 90 days after onset was 5.

Conclusion

A case of giant femoral artery pseudoaneurysm following recanalization therapy for acute ischemic stroke was reported. Pseudoaneurysms at the puncture site can rupture after significant growth. Curative treatment is required without delay.

Rescue carotid puncture for ischemic stroke treated by endovascular therapy: a multicentric analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Endovascular therapy (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) can be challenging in older patients with supra-aortic tortuosity. Rescue carotid puncture (RCP) can be an alternative in case of supra-aortic catheterization failure by femoral access, but data regarding RCP are scarce. We sought to investigate the feasibility, effectiveness and safety of RCP for AIS treated by EVT.

METHODS

Patients treated by EVT with RCP were included from January 2012 to December 2019 in the Endovascular Treatment in Ischemic Stroke (ETIS) multicentric registry. Main outcomes included reperfusion rates ( ≥ TICI2B), 3 month functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale) and 3 month mortality. We also performed an additional systematic review of the literature according to the PRISMA checklist to summarize previous studies on RCP.

RESULTS

25 patients treated by EVT with RCP were included from the ETIS registry. RCP mainly concerned elderly patients (median age 85 years, range 73-92) with supra-aortic tortuosity (n=16 (64%)). Intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) was used for nine patients (36%). Successful reperfusion was achieved in 64%, 87.5% of patients were dependent at 3 months, and 3 month mortality was 45.8%. The systematic review yielded comparable results. In pooled individual data, there was a shift toward better functional outcome in patients with successful reperfusion (median (IQR) 4 (2-6) vs 6 (4-6), p=0.011).

CONCLUSION

RCP mainly concerned elderly patients admitted for AIS with anterior LVO with supra-aortic tortuosity. The procedure seemed feasible, notably for patients treated with IVT, and led to significant reperfusion rates at the end of procedure, but with pronounced unfavorable outcomes at 3 months. RCP should be performed under general anesthesia to avoid life-threatening complications and ensure airways safety. Finally, RCP led to low rates of closure complications, emphasizing that this concern should not withhold RCP, if indicated.

Safety and efficacy study of the wound care 360° SiteSeal® vascular closure device in percutaneous cardiac catheterization procedures

OBJECTIVES

Vascular access site complications after percutaneous transfemoral cardiovascular procedures remain a common cause of morbidity and mortality. We evaluated the SiteSeal® VCD for achieving hemostasis following diagnostic cardiac catheterization.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective case control single center study to assess the safety and efficacy of SiteSeal® VCD compared to standard manual compression following diagnostic cardiac catheterization. Forty patients were enrolled in study to receive either SiteSeal® device or manual compression (20 in each group).

RESULTS

Patients in the SiteSeal® group achieved hemostasis in a significantly shorter time (4 ± 2.4 vs. 19 ± 2.4 min, P < 0.001), had shorter time from hemostasis to ambulation (95 ± 44 vs. 388 ± 63 min, P < 0.001) and significantly earlier device deployment to discharge time compared to the manual compression group (4.7 ± 1.1 vs. 8.9 ± 4.8 h, P = 0.001). There was one non-major bleeding event in the SiteSeal® group which occurred >24 h after discharge from the hospital and was managed conservatively. In the remaining device patients, there was no clinical or Doppler ultrasound evidence of major or minor vascular complication with good overall patient comfort at discharge, 7 days and 30 days follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

In this first clinical experience, the SiteSeal® VCD achieved safe and efficient hemostasis, allowed for earlier ambulation and faster discharge compared to manual compression.

Transarterial and transvenous access for neurointerventional surgery: report of the SNIS Standards and Guidelines Committee

The purpose of this publication is to provide a comprehensive review on the techniques and tools used for vascular access in neurointerventional procedures. Using published literature, we reviewed data on access methods, sites, tools, and techniques for neurointerventions. Recommendations are provided based on quality of data/levels of evidence and, where appropriate, expert consensus. While tools and techniques continue to be developed, current literature and experience supports certain principles regarding vascular access for neurointerventional procedures.

FemoSeal® vascular closure device for antegrade common femoral artery access: Safety and technical notes

PURPOSE

To retrospectively assess the efficacy and safety of FemoSeal^® vascular closure device to achieve hemostasis following antegrade common femoral artery puncture after lower limb revascularization using vascular sheaths from 5 to 8 Fr.

METHODS

We reviewed the hemostatic outcome achieved with FemoSeal in 103 consecutive patients (mean age: 69 ± 8 years, 71 males) that undergone to 111 antegrade common femoral artery accesses for percutaneous lower limbs revascularization using 5- to 8-Fr vascular sheaths. We used FemoSeal in an unselected population, without exclusion criteria. The primary outcome was the technical success, meant as achieving complete hemostasis without immediate complications.

RESULTS

Hemostasis was achieved in all 111 puncture sites (100% technical success). We observed eight (7%) puncture site minor complications (hematomas), none of which affecting the patients' outcome or requiring further therapies or increasing the hospital stay. There were no statistically significant differences between the variables potentially related to the occurrence of complications (age, international normalized ratio, platelet count, partial thromboplastin time ratio, body mass index, and common femoral arteries calcification grade) in patients with and without complications. Complications group mean body mass index was 26.4 ± 2.8 kg/m² versus non-complications group 26.6 ± 4.4 kg/m², p = 0.92. Mean international normalized ratio and partial thromboplastin time ratio were 1.05 ± 0.01 and 1.05 ± 0.14 versus 1.13 ± 0.2 (p = 0.39) and 1.12 ± 0.23 (p = 0.53), respectively. Common femoral arteries calcification grade was the same (mean: 1, p = 1). Platelet count was 202 × 10³/mL ± 66.7 versus 226 × 10³/mL ± 91.2, p = 0.55. Mean age was 72.3 ± 10 years versus 72.8 ± 8 years, p = 0.86.

CONCLUSION

The low rate (7%) and grading of the adverse events, combined with the high technical success rate (100%), in an unselected group of patients treated in daily routine, suggest high safety and efficacy of FemoSeal vascular closure device in antegrade common femoral artery puncture site hemostasis when using vascular sheaths ranging from 5 to 8 Fr. Therefore, FemoSeal could be considered as a first-line hemostasis strategy in such cases.

Percutaneous or surgical access for transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation is an important therapeutic option for patients with symptomatic, severe aortic stenosis at increased risk for open surgical aortic valve replacement. Although a number of alternative vascular access sites have been developed, transfemoral access is overwhelmingly the dominant access strategy for this procedure. Access was achieved in the initial clinical experience primarily via surgical cutdown, but more recently, there has been increasing use of a fully percutaneous approach. This is likely driven by improvements in technology, more experience with large bore vascular closure devices (VCDs), and pressures to reduce hospital length of stay. This review will describe temporal trends of percutaneous versus surgical transfemoral access, identify the advantages and disadvantages of each approach, and describe the best practices for achieving safe transfemoral percutaneous access.

Safety and Effectiveness of Suture-mediated Arterial Closure Device in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients Who Underwent Drug-Eluting Beads Transarterial Chemoembolization

BACKGROUND

The number of transarterial percutaneous procedures has risen over the years, consequently reducing puncture site related complications has become a necessity. To this end, the use of arterial closure devices has been growing progressively and their benefits have become a focus of research. The purpose of this study is to assess the safety and effectiveness of a suture-mediated closure device, Perclose ProGlide^® (Abbott Vascular, Redwood City, CA), in patients with liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma who underwent transarterial liver chemoembolization with drug-eluting beads.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cohort of 253 hepatocellular carcinoma patients who underwent 449 procedures of transarterial liver chemoembolization with drug-eluting beads using the Perclose Proglide device was prospectively studied. The main endpoints evaluated were the technical success of the device, defined as complete hemostasis achieved within 3 min after the closure, and the incidence of puncture-site complications. The secondary endpoints evaluated were the correlation between epidemiological factors, coagulation profile and degree of liver disease, and the occurrence of complications.

RESULTS

Technical success was achieved in 96% of the cases. Among patients who underwent repeated procedures using the same vascular access, this rate was 95.3%. Puncture-site complications were observed in 7 procedures (1.56%); 4 (0.89%) were due to hemorrhage, 2 (0.44%) hematomas and 2 (0.44%) pseudoaneurysms; 2 (0.44%) due to limb ischemia; and 1 (0.22%) due to arterial dissection. Among them, 3 cases required intervention. The statistical analysis of demographic characteristics, Child-Pugh classification, and coagulation status did not show a significant correlation with the occurrence of complications. Of the 449 procedures, only 4 (0.89%) needed hospitalization due to puncture-site complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of Perclose Proglide is safe and effective in patients with liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma who underwent transarterial liver chemoembolization with drug-eluting beads.

Contemporary Arterial Access in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory

Obtaining femoral and radial arterial access in the cardiac catheterization laboratory using state-of-the-art techniques is essential to optimize outcomes, patient satisfaction, and procedural efficiency. Although transradial access is increasingly used for coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention, femoral access remains necessary for numerous procedures, many requiring large-bore access, including complex high-risk coronary interventions, structural procedures, and procedures involving mechanical circulatory support. For femoral access, contemporary access techniques should combine the use of fluoroscopy, ultrasound, micropuncture needle, femoral angiography, and vascular closure devices, when feasible. For radial access, ultrasound may reveal important anatomic features and expedite access. Despite randomized controlled trials supporting use of routine ultrasound guidance for femoral and/or radial arterial access, ultrasound remains underused in cardiac catheterization laboratories. This article reviews contemporary techniques to achieve optimal arterial access in the cardiac catheterization laboratory.

Reduction of vascular complication rates from femoral artery access in contemporary women undergoing cardiac catheterization

BACKGROUND

Femoral arterial access (FAA) during diagnostic coronary angiography (CAG) and percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) are associated with several vascular complications (VC). VC rate in our experience a decade ago was 3.02% and higher in women (4.7% in women, and 1.67% in men, p < 0.0006), with an OR of 2.81 (95% CI: 1.51-5.22).

METHODS

Patients who underwent CAG and PCI utilizing FAA (n = 2617) were separated into Period 1 (2005 to 2008; 1970 patients; Male 1045; Female 925) and Period 2 (2016-2017; 647 patients; Male 357; Female 290). FA access was preceded by anatomic FA localization during Period 1 vs. additional fluoroscopic marking of femoral head during Period 2. Ultrasound guidance was not utilized during either period. VCs were defined as hematoma>3 cm, major bleeding requiring blood transfusion or hemoglobin drop >2 g, retroperitoneal bleed, pseudoaneurysm, AV fistula, arterial thrombosis, distal embolism, dissection, and transient limb ischemia.

RESULTS

Rate of VCs did not differ from Periods 1 to 2 (2.44% vs. 2.32%, p = 1.0). An elevated rate of VCs experienced by women in Period 1 (Female 3.68% vs. Male 1.34%, p < 0.05) is no longer noted in Period 2(Female 2.07% vs. Male 2.52%, p = 0.79). Vascular closure device (VCD) use was protective in both Periods 1 and 2.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of fluoroscopic marking of femoral head prior to access, smaller sheath size, and being a high femoral volume center may have contributed to the reduced incidence of VCs in women. VCD utilization is continuing to reduce VC rates in both men and women.

Do not underestimate the femoral pseudoaneurysm

Abstract. In addition to haematoma and arteriovenous fistula, the iatrogenic pseudoaneurysm is a common complication of vascular access that is caused by a perforation in the arterial wall. Iatrogenic pseudoaneurysms can progress in size and lead to rupture and active bleeding. Over the previous few decades, therapeutic methods have evolved from surgical repair to less invasive options, such as ultrasound-guided compression therapy (UGCT) and ultrasound-guided thrombin injection (UGTI). This paper presents an overview of the diagnostic and treatment modalities used in femoral pseudoaneurysms as well as a comprehensive summary of previous studies that analysed the success and complication rates of UGCT and UGTI.

Effect of TENS on Postoperative Pain and Pulmonary Function in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of electrical nerve stimulation on pain intensity and pulmonary function in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a randomized clinical trial, a total of 100 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery at Masih Daneshvari Hospital, Tehran, Iran, from February to May 2014, were divided into two groups. In the intervention group (n = 50), patients received routine care along with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) immediately after admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). In the placebo group (n = 50), patients only received routine care. The pain intensity was measured using a visual analog scale (VAS) every 6 hours for 72 hours after surgery in two conditions of rest and coughing. Pulmonary function was assessed through forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and forced volume capacity (FVC) at 24, 48, and 72 hours after surgery. Age, gender, body mass index, narcotic consumption, ICU length of stay, and requests for chest radiographs were recorded. The statistical level of significance was set at p < .05.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of age, gender, and body mass index (p > .05). Pain intensity was significantly lower in the TENS group than the placebo group in both resting and coughing condition (p < .05). FVC and FEV1 were significantly better and faster in the TENS group than in the placebo group at 24, 48, and 72 hours after surgery (p < .05). Patients in the TENS group had significantly lower narcotic use and requests for chest radiographs compared with placebo group.

CONCLUSIONS

TENS may reduce postoperative pain in resting and coughing conditions, improve pulmonary function, and reduce narcotic use in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery.

Moving beyond Seldinger, a vascular access and closure smorgasbord, "safe zone" or not

This paper describes a quality improvement initiative featuring the adoption of multiple access and closure techniques to assess "real world" outcomes. Although the study does not provide a scientific evidence base, it does highlight the changing platforms being adopted. Radial, micropuncture, and image guided access will hopefully become near universal in the coming decade.

Totally Percutaneous Access Using Perclose Proglide for Endovascular Treatment of Aortic Diseases

Objective

To evaluate our experience following the introduction of a percutaneous program for endovascular treatment of aortic diseases using Perclose Proglide® assessing efficacy, complications and identification of potential risk factors that could predict failure or major access site complications.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study during a two-year period was performed. All the patients submitted to totally percutaneous endovascular repair (PEVAR) of aortic diseases and transcatheter aortic valve implantation since we started the total percutaneous approach with the preclosure technique from November 2013 to December 2015 were included in the study. The primary endpoint was major ipsilateral access complication, defined according to PEVAR trial.

Results

In a cohort of 123 patients, immediate technical success was obtained in 121 (98.37%) patients, with only two (0.82%) cases in 242 vascular access sites that required intervention immediately after the procedure. Pairwise comparisons revealed increased major access complication among patients with >50% common femoral artery (CFA) calcification vs. none (P=0.004) and > 50% CFA calcification vs. < 50% CFA calcification (P=0.002). Small artery diameter (<6.5 mm) also increased major access complication compared to bigger diameters (> 6.5 mm) (P=0.027).

Conclusion

The preclosure technique with two Perclose Proglide® for PEVAR is safe and effective. Complications occur more often in patients with unfavorable access site anatomy and the success rate can be improved with proper patient selection.

Relationship Between Femoral Vascular Closure Devices and Short-Term Mortality From 271 845 Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Procedures Performed in the United Kingdom Between 2006 and 2011: A Propensity Score-Corrected Analysis From the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society

BACKGROUND

The impact of vascular closure devices (VCDs) via the femoral arterial access site on short-term mortality in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention is currently unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The association between femoral arterial vascular access site management (manual pressure [including external clamp] versus VCD) and 30-day mortality was examined in a national real-world registry of 271 845 patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention for elective, non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction and ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction indications in the United Kingdom between 2006 and 2011. Crude and propensity score-corrected analyses were performed using Cox regression, with additional analyses undertaken in clinically relevant subgroups; 40.1% (n=109 001) of subjects were treated with manual pressure and 59.9% (n=162 844) with VCD. Subjects treated with VCD had fewer comorbidities and were less likely to present with ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock (P<0.001). Crude 30-day mortality was lower in the group treated with VCD compared with manual pressure (hazard ratio [HR], 0.58; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.54-0.61; 1.4% versus 2.4%, log rank P<0.0001), findings that were substantially reduced but persisted after propensity score correction (HR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.86-0.97; 1.8% versus 2.0% versus P<0.001). A more pronounced association of VCD with a reduction in 30-day mortality was evident in females (HR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.77-0.94; Pinteraction=0.037), presentation with acute coronary syndrome (HR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.83-0.94; Pinteraction=0.0027), or recent lysis (HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.40-1.01; Pinteraction=0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

When compared with manual pressure, VCD was associated with a minor short-term (30-day) prognostic benefit after propensity score correction in the global population and clinically relevant subgroups. The potential for residual confounding factors impacting on short-term mortality cannot be excluded, despite the study having measured and balanced all recorded confounder factors.

Percutaneous Plug-Based Arteriotomy Closure Device for Large-Bore Access: A Multicenter Prospective Study

OBJECTIVES

The authors sought to study the safety and efficacy of the MANTA Vascular Closure Device (VCD), a novel collagen-based technology dedicated to closure of large-bore arteriotomies.

BACKGROUND

Novel transfemoral therapeutic interventions requiring large-bore catheters have become valid minimally invasive options but have inherent access management challenges. To date, no dedicated vascular closure devices exist for large arteriotomies.

METHODS

A prospective, single-arm clinical investigation enrolling patients who underwent elective percutaneous interventions with large-bore catheters and planned percutaneous arteriotomy closure in 3 European institutions.

RESULTS

A total of 50 patients with a mean age of 79.5 ± 8.3 years underwent high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention, balloon aortic valvuloplasty, or transcatheter aortic valve replacement with large-bore catheters sized 12-F to 19-F. MANTA closure was performed by 9 different operators. The 14-F MANTA VCD was deployed in one-third of the overall cohort (16 of 50, 32%), and the 18-F MANTA VCD in the remainder. The MANTA VCD was deployed successfully in all patients. The mean time to hemostasis was 2 min, 23 s. One patient had a major vascular and major bleeding complication with prolonged femoral bleeding that was successfully treated with a covered stent and eventual surgical repair. There were no other access site-related complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This first multicenter experience demonstrates rapid and reliable hemostasis and low complication rates with the use of the plug-based MANTA VCD for large-bore arteriotomy closure.

Comparison of manual compression and vascular hemostasis devices after coronary angiography or percutaneous coronary intervention through femoral artery access: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVES

To compare the efficacy and safety of manual compression (MC) with vascular hemostasis devices (VHD) in patients undergoing coronary angiography (CA) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) through femoral artery access.

INTRODUCTION

The use of femoral artery access for coronary procedures may result in access-related complications, prolonged immobility and discomfort for the patients. MC results in longer time-to-hemostasis (TTH) and time-to-ambulation (TTA) compared to VHDs but its role in access-related complications remains unclear in patients undergoing coronary procedures.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL and relevant references for English language randomized controlled trials (RCT) from inception through September 30, 2016. We performed the meta-analysis using random effects model. The outcomes were time-to-hemostasis, time-to-ambulation, major bleeding, large hematoma >5cm, pseudoaneurysm and other adverse events.

RESULTS

The electronic database search resulted in a total of 44 RCTs with a total of 18,802 patients for analysis. MC, compared to VHD resulted in longer TTH [mean difference (MD): 11.21min; 95% confidence interval (CI) 8.13-14.29; P<0.00001] and TTA [standardized mean difference: 1.2 (0.79-1.62); P<0.00001] along with excess risk of hematoma >5cm formation [risk ratio (RR): 1.38 (1.15-1.67); P=0.0008]. MC resulted in similar risk of major bleeding [1.01 (0.64-1.60); P=0.95] pseudoaneurysm [0.99 (0.75-1.29); P=0.92], infections [0.52 (0.25-1.10); P=0.09], need of surgery [0.60 (0.29-1.22); P=0.16), AV fistula [0.93 (0.68-1.27); P=0.63] and ipsilateral leg ischemia [0.95 (0.57-1.60); P=0.86] compared to VHD.

CONCLUSION

Manual compression increase time-to-hemostasis, time-to-ambulation and risk of hematoma formation compared vascular hemostasis devices.

Use of a vascular closure device during percutaneous arterial access in a dog with impaired hemostasis

OBJECTIVE

To report the use of a vascular closure device (VCD) to provide rapid arterial hemostasis following percutaneous femoral arterial catheterization and diagnostic angiography in a thrombocytopenic and coagulopathic dog.

CASE SUMMARY

A 6-year-old female spayed Kai Ken Tora dog presented after vehicular trauma. The dog was diagnosed with traumatic pneumothorax, degloving wounds of the right antebrachium, subcutaneous hemorrhage within the axillary tissues of the left thoracic limb, and anemia and thrombocytopenia secondary to acute hemorrhage. Treatment included therapeutic thoracocentesis and open wound management of the right thoracic limb as well as packed RBC and fresh frozen plasma transfusions. Diagnostic angiography of the left brachial artery was performed via percutaneous femoral arterial access to investigate the source of a persistent axillary hematoma. The arterial access site was closed using an extraluminal VCD and hemostasis was immediate with normal femoral arterial blood flow documented by Doppler ultrasound.

NEW OR UNIQUE INFORMATION PROVIDED

This report describes use of a VCD for arterial closure following percutaneous access in a dog with impaired hemostasis; to the authors' knowledge, this is the first clinical report of a VCD used in a veterinary species.

Safety and efficacy of combined micropuncture and shallow angle femoral artery access for neurovascular angiography

INTRODUCTION

The AXERA 2 low-angle vascular access device utilizes a dual arteriotomy mechanism in which the standard access tract is compressed by a vascular sheath inserted over the second, low-angle tract. It is unknown whether this device could be effectively used with 21-gauge micropuncture access, as the micropuncture introducer makes a larger arteriotomy than the 19-gauge needle provided with the AXERA 2 system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review was performed on 189 patients who underwent common femoral artery access for diagnostic cerebrovascular angiography using either combined micropuncture and AXERA 2 access or standard access with manual pressure hemostasis. Demographic and procedural data were reviewed along with complications related to vascular access and times to bed elevation, ambulation and discharge.

RESULTS

Combined micropuncture and AXERA 2 access was performed on 110 patients and 79 patients had standard access. The AXERA device was successfully used in 91.8% of the cases. Demographic data, anticoagulant use and sheath sizes were similar between both subsets. Use of the AXERA 2 was associated with two bleeding complications (1.8%) compared with 10 (12.7%) with manual pressure hemostasis alone. Institution-specific protocol allowed shorter mean manual compression time, as well as shorter times to ambulation and discharge with the AXERA 2.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of the AXERA 2 device with micropuncture access did not infer increased bleeding risk than standard arterial access in this patient series. The considerable incidence of device use failures suggests a learning curve associated with its use.

MOrtality and infectious complications of therapeutic EndoVAscular interventional radiology: a systematic and meta-analysis protocol

BACKGROUND

Endovascular interventional radiology (EIR) is an increasingly popular, mini invasive treatment option for patient with symptomatic vascular disease. The EIR practiced by qualified hands is an effective, well-tolerated procedure that offers relief of patient's symptoms with a low risk of complications. During acute post procedural period, immediate complications may relate to vascular access, restenosis, thromboembolic events, uterine ischemia, infection, necrosis, sepsis, ICU stay, surgical recovery, pain management, treatment failure, and death. Moreover, additional non-life-threatening complications exist, but they are not well described and represent disparate information.

METHODS/DESIGN

A range of databases will be screened consulted to identify the relevant studies: PubMed, EMBASE, The Cochrane Library, NosoBase, and Google Scholar (to identify articles not yet indexed). Scientist librarian used Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and free terms to construct the search strategy in PubMed. This search strategy will be adapted in other databases. Two coauthors will independently select the relevant studies, extract the relevant data, and assess the risk of bias in the included studies. Any disagreements between the two authors will be solved by a third author.

DISCUSSION

This systematic review will provide a synthesis of EIR complications. The spotlighted results will be analyzed in order to provide a state-of-knowledge synopsis of the current evidence base in relation to the epidemiology of the infectious complications after EIR. In the event of conclusive results, our findings will serve as a reference background to assess guidelines on reality of the problem of the infections linked to endovascular interventional radiology and to formulate of assumptions and propose preventive measures, based on the results of our investigations. These propositions will aim to reduce the risk and/or the severity of these complications in the concerned population in favor a positive medical economics report. It will also aim to decrease the antibio-resistance and in fine will improve health status and security of patients.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42015025594.

Endovascular therapy for Angio-sealTM -related acute limb ischemia: Perioperative and long-term results

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the perioperative and long-term outcomes of endovascular therapy for Angio-seal^TM -related acute limb ischemia.

BACKGROUND

Currently, limited data are available on the optimal treatment strategy for Angio-seal^TM -related acute lower limb ischemia.

METHODS

The prospectively maintained patient database of our institution was retrospectively searched to identify all patients who developed acute lower limb ischemia after use of the Angio-Seal^TM and received endovascular treatment from January 2010 to February 2016. The clinical and follow-up data were evaluated.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients with Angio-Seal^TM -related acute limb ischemia underwent endovascular therapy, resulting in an approximated incidence of 0.29% of all implanted devices. The overall procedural success rate was 96.9%. With regard to the patients who underwent successful endovascular treatment, the culprit lesion was located in the common femoral artery in 22 (71.0%) cases, the femoral artery bifurcation in 3 (9.7%) cases and the superficial femoral artery in 6 (19.4%) cases. Ten (31.3%) patients had thrombosis in other distal lower limb arteries ipsilateral to Angio-seal^TM use. Eighteen (58.1%) patients underwent balloon angioplasty alone, while nine (29.0%) patients underwent balloon angioplasty and thrombolysis, and four (12.9%) patients underwent stent implantation. One patient suffered from minor bleeding at the site of application of the Angio-seal^TM . During an average of 43.5 ± 22.9 months of follow-up, three patients with symptomatic restenosis underwent a second successful balloon angioplasty and remained asymptomatic until the last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Balloon angioplasty with selective thrombolysis or stent placement was safe and effective, with a low incidence of complication and restenosis. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Ultrasound-guided Femoral Artery Access for Minimally Invasive Neuro-intervention and Risk Factors for Access Site Hematoma

Although ultrasound (US) guidance for venous access is becoming the “standard of care” for preventing access site complications, its feasibility for arterial access has not been fully investigated, especially in the neuro-interventional population. We conducted the first prospective cohort study on US-guided femoral artery access during neuro-interventional procedure. This study included 64 consecutive patients who underwent US-guided femoral artery access through 66 arterial access sites for diagnostic and/or neuro-interventional purposes. The number of attempts required for both the sheath insertion and the success of anterior wall puncture were recorded. In addition, the occurrence of major complications and hematoma formation on the arterial access site examined by US were statistically analyzed. The median number of attempts was 1 (1–2) and first-pass success rate was 63.6%. Anterior wall puncture was achieved in 98.5%. In one case (1.5%), a pseudoaneurysm was observed. In all cases, US clearly depicted a common femoral artery (CFA) and its bifurcation. Post-procedural hematoma was detected in 13 cases (19.7%), most of which were “tiny” or “moderate” in size. Low body mass index and antiplatelet therapy were the independent risk factors for access site hematoma. The US-guided CFA access was feasible even in neuro-interventional procedure. The method was particularly helpful in the patients with un-palpable pulsation of femoral arteries. To prevent arterial access site hematoma, special care should be taken in patients with low body mass index and who are on antiplatelet therapy.

Treatment of Angio-Seal-Related Femoral Artery Occlusion Using Directional Atherectomy-Primary Results and Midterm Follow-Up

OBJECTIVE

We describe a novel approach for the endovascular treatment of femoral artery occlusion as a result of Angio-Seal closure device deployment.

BACKGROUND

Angio-Seal is the most commonly used vascular closure device following percutaneous coronary and peripheral catheterizations worldwide. A rare complication of Angio-Seal deployment is an occlusion of the femoral artery leading to limb ischemia requiring revascularization. Given its unique ability to cut both atherosclerotic plaque and the Angio-Seal anchor with a collagen plug at operator-directed planes, TurboHawk/HawkOne atherectomy device can be a fast and effective approach to treat Angio-Seal-associated femoral artery occlusions.

METHODS

We studied 13 consecutive patients who developed Angio-Seal-associated femoral artery occlusions that occurred from 3 hours to several weeks after catheterization. These patients were successfully treated with TurboHawk/HawkOne directional atherectomy followed by balloon angioplasty with no complications. During a mean follow-up period of 20.4 ± 17.3 months, 12 patients remained claudication free with no evidence of obstructive arterial disease of the treated segment on imaging studies. One patient developed restenosis that was treated with repeat atherectomy and balloon angioplasty following which he was asymptomatic at follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The use of directional atherectomy followed by balloon angioplasty is a quick, safe, and effective endovascular approach to treating Angio-Seal-associated femoral artery occlusions. It is associated with an excellent success rate, no complications, and good midterm outcomes.

Preoperative Risk Levels and Vascular Access in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation-A Single-Institute Analysis

Although transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has been indicated for patients with high surgical risk, indications for or against the procedure become more difficult as vascular access becomes more proximal and/or invasive in order to accommodate patients with even higher risks. We compared preoperative factors including the European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EuroSCORE) and Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality (STS) score with postoperative survival in 195 patients undergoing TAVI during 2.5 years (January 2010 to June 2012), when vascular access routes were developed from iliofemoral (IL/Fm access, n = 149), axillo-clavicular, apical, and direct aortic approaches (alternative access, n = 46). Logistic regression analyses showed that alternative access was associated with reduced 30-day survival (P = 0.024), while high surgical risk (>15% in both EuroSCORE and STS score) was associated with reduced 1-year survival (P = 0.046). Thus, patients treated via IL/Fm access had acceptable outcome regardless of preoperative risk levels while patients with low surgical risk (<15%) had favorable outcome irrespective of access route. Since the remaining patients with combined risk factors, high preoperative risk level (>15%) requiring alternative access, had a prohibitive risk in our experience, they might have been considered untreatable or not amenable even to TAVI and offered medical or alternative managements.

Comparison of a vascular closure device versus the radial approach to reduce access site complications in non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome patients: The angio-seal versus the radial approach in acute coronary syndrome trial

OBJECTIVES

To compare the radial versus femoral approach using Angio-Seal for the incidence of access site complications among non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome patients undergoing invasive strategy.

BACKGROUND

Arterial access is a major site of complications after invasive coronary procedures. Vascular closure devices provide more comfort to patients decreasing time to hemostasis and need for bed rest. However, the inconsistency of data proving their safety limits their routine adoption as a strategy to prevent vascular complications.

METHODS

Single-center non-inferiority trial where 240 patients were randomized to radial or femoral access using Angio-Seal. The primary objective was the occurrence of complications at the arterial puncture site until 30 days after the procedure.

RESULTS

There were no baseline clinical differences between groups, except for a greater prevalence of female patients in the radial group (33.3 vs. 20.0%, P = 0.020). Hemostasis was achieved in the entire radial group with the use of TR Band and in 95% of the procedures in the femoral group with Angio-Seal (P = 0.029). Except for a higher incidence of asymptomatic arterial occlusion in the radial group, there were no differences among the other analyzed outcomes. According to the noninferiority test, the use of Angio-Seal was noninferior to the radial approach, considering the margin of 15% (12.5 vs. 13.3%, difference -0.83%, 95% CI -9.31 - 7.65, P for noninferiority <0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Angio-Seal seems noninferior in the incidence of access site complications at 30 days when compared with the radial approach. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Endovascular Repair Using Suture-Mediated Closure Devices and Balloon Tamponade following Inadvertent Subclavian Artery Catheterization with Large-Caliber Hemodialysis Catheter

Accidental subclavian artery cannulation is an uncommon but potentially serious complication of central venous catheterization. Removal of a catheter inadvertently placed in the subclavian artery can lead to substantial bleeding, as achieving hemostasis in this area through manual compression presents considerable difficulty. Additionally, surgical treatment might be unsuitable for high-risk patients due to comorbidities. Here, we report a case of an inadvertently-inserted 11.5-French hemodialysis catheter in the subclavian artery during internal jugular venous catheterization. We performed percutaneous closure of the subclavian artery using three 6-French Perclose Proglide® devices with a balloon tamponade in the proximal part of the subclavian artery. Closure was completed without embolic neurological complications.

Clinical and Subclinical Femoral Vascular Complications after Deployment of two Different Vascular Closure Devices or Manual Compression in the Setting of Coronary Intervention

BACKGROUND

In the past two decades vascular closure devices (VCD) have been increasingly utilized as an alternative to manual compression after percutaneous femoral artery access. However, there is a lack of data confirming a significant reduction of vascular complication in a routine interventional setting. Systematic assessment of puncture sites with ultrasound was hardly performed.

METHODS

620 consecutive patients undergoing elective or urgent percutaneous coronary intervention were randomly allocated to either Angioseal (AS; n = 210), or Starclose (SC; n = 196) or manual compression (MC; n = 214). As an adjunct to clinical evaluation vascular ultrasonography was used to assess the safety of each hemostatic method in terms of major and minor vascular complications. The efficacy of VCDs was assessed by achievement of puncture site hemostasis.

RESULTS

No major complications needing transfusion or vascular surgery were observed. Furthermore, the overall incidence of clinical and subclinical minor complications was similar among the three groups. There was no differences in the occurrence of pseudoaneurysmata (AS = 10; SC = 6; MC = 10), arteriovenous fistula (AS = 1; SC = 4; MC = 2) and large hematoma (AS = 11; SC = 10; MC = 14). The choice of access site treatment had no impact in the duration of hospital stay (AS = 6.7; SC = 7.4; MS = 6.4 days).

CONCLUSIONS

In the setting of routine coronary intervention AS and SC provide a similar efficacy and safety as manual compression. Subclinical vascular injuries are rare and not related to VCD use.

Incidence, predictors, and treatment options of critical limb ischaemia after use of collagen plug-based vascular closure devices

AIMS

Limited data are available on the frequency and predictors of vascular closure device (VCD) failure with subsequent vascular complications. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence, clinical characteristics, and treatment options in patients with critical limb ischaemia (CLI) after use of a collagen plug-based VCD.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A high-volume, single-centre prospectively maintained database was retrospectively interrogated, and cases of collagen plug-based VCD-related CLI were identified between June 2006 and December 2013. CLI was defined as acute onset of rest pain after VCD application requiring endovascular or surgical treatment. Among 13,595 coronary procedures, 43 patients (0.3%) were identified with an Angio-Seal-related CLI. In a multivariable logistic regression analysis, peripheral artery disease and renal insufficiency were identified as independent predictors for CLI after Angio-Seal application. Treatment was performed in 27 patients (63%) by surgery and in 16 patients (37%) with endovascular angioplasty.

CONCLUSIONS

CLI after use of a collagen plug-based VCD is rare. Peripheral artery disease was identified as an independent predictor of CLI. Interventional cardiologists should be aware of potentially high-risk patients and complications after use of a VCD to provide prompt and adequate therapy.