[Iatrogenic vascular lesions after cardiac catheterization].

INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE

The increase in vascular complications after cardiac catheterizations is rising due to the increase in the total number of these procedures. The purpose of this report is to determine the incidence of this complication and to identify the variables which are related to the presence of vascular complications which required surgical repair.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Retrospective review of the 3,723 cardiac catheterizations made by the interventional cardiology department during a period between June 1992 to August 1996.

RESULTS

Thirty two vascular complications were detected (0.9%), which required surgical reparation. There was no statistical difference in age, sex, presence of vascular risk factors, cardiac indication for catheterization and vascular approach between those patients who had a vascular complication and those who did not. The presence of obesity [RR: 2.5, IC 95% (1.2-5)], use of catheter sheath, superior or equal to 8F [RR: 0.3, IC 95% (0.14-0.62)] and use of systemic anticoagulation [RR: 4.8, IC 95% (2.1-10.8)], increase the risk of vascular complications. Two patients died (6.2%) due to cardiac complications and there were minor complications in 23% after surgical repair.

CONCLUSION

Vascular complications after cardiac catheterization continue to be a significant problem. There are several variables which influence the presentation of vascular complications. Continued surveillance of cardiac catheterization complications is necessary to minimize problems and improve results.