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Radial artery infections and aneurysms after catheterization
E Swanson1, A Freiberg, D R Salter
1Division of Plastic Surgery, Toronto Western Hospital, Canada.
Abstract:
Twelve patients in whom radial artery infections developed after catheterization in an intensive care unit over a 2-year period were reviewed. The incidence of local infection was 0.4%. An increased risk of infection was associated with prolonged catheterization (greater than 4 days). Aneurysms developed in five patients. Signs of septic emboli were present in two patients, including Osler's nodes, Janeway's lesions, and fingertip infarcts. In 6 of the 12 patients, the radial artery infection resolved with antibiotic treatment alone. The five patients with infected aneurysms were treated successfully with antibiotics and surgical excision. The radial artery was reconstructed by use of a vein graft in one patient. We believe that patients not responding promptly to antibiotics or patients with infected aneurysms are best treated by surgical excision.
Insights
Radial artery infections after catheterization are rare (0.4% incidence). Prolonged catheter use increases infection risk, and prompt treatment, including surgery for aneurysms, is crucial for recovery.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Vascular Surgery
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Radial artery catheterization is common in intensive care units.
- Infections can arise from invasive procedures, leading to serious complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review outcomes of radial artery infections post-catheterization.
- To identify risk factors and effective treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of twelve patients with radial artery infections.
- Analysis of infection incidence, risk factors, and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- Overall infection incidence was 0.4%.
- Prolonged catheterization (over 4 days) was linked to increased infection risk.
- Five patients developed aneurysms, and two showed signs of septic emboli.
- Antibiotics alone resolved infections in 6 patients; 5 with infected aneurysms required surgery.
Conclusions:
- Prolonged radial artery catheterization increases infection risk.
- Prompt antibiotic therapy is effective for uncomplicated infections.
- Surgical excision is recommended for infected aneurysms or non-responsive cases.