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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.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|January 1, 1990
Summary
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.