Bacterial colonization of radial artery catheters.

In 147 radial artery catheterizations performed, blanching or embolization was noted in 10.8% of the patients. Only a single episode of catheter-related septicemia was observed (0.6%) Mean duration of catheterization was 48 +/- 6 hours. Of 110 catheters cultured 25.4% grew bacteria; most organisms cultured were nonpathogenic. Duration of catheterization and intravascular infusion did not alter the incidence of catheter colonization.