Stripping of the deep circumflex iliac artery. A rare complication to percutaneous catheterization of the femoral artery.

In connection with a percutaneous retrograde heart catheterization via the femoral artery, the guidewire was captured in the deep circumflex iliac artery. On withdrawal of the guidewire stripping of the artery occurred. Occasionally this artery is catheterized unintentionally. Fluoroscopy used as a routine during the introduction of guidewire into the femoral artery could prevent catheterization of the deep circumflex iliac artery.