Complications associated with the use of percutaneous arterial closure devices in endovascular interventions

T Joseph, P Coney, A Atwal, P Slaney, R Downing
 Worcestershire Royal Hospital, Worcester, UK

Objectives: To assess the experience of Vascular Society members of complications arising from the use of percutaneous arterial closure devices.

Methods: Questionnaire survey of 450 members of the Vascular Society.

Results: 166 (37%) questionnaires were returned. 114(69%) respondents had experience of closure devices; Angioseal and Perclose were the most commonly used of the 7 types of devices reported. 81(71%) of these respondents described a total of 218 limb threatening complications which had ended in arterial interventions in 202 cases, 3 lower limb amputations and 5 deaths.

Conclusion: Complications of percutaneous closure devices are not uncommonly seen and carry a significant morbidity and mortality. Interdisciplinary audit of the use of percutaneous arterial closure devices is advised as result of the life and limb threatening complications revealed in this survey.

Table showing the frequency of complications and artery involved.