Cannulation of the radial and dorsalis pedis arteries

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Interventional Cardiology
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Arterial cannulation is a common procedure in critical care and interventional settings.
• Potential complications include thrombosis, stenosis, and impaired blood flow.
• Identifying risk factors for these complications is crucial for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the complications associated with radial artery and dorsalis pedis artery cannulation.
• To identify significant variables affecting post-cannulation blood flow in these arteries.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 46 patients undergoing cannulation of either the radial artery (group I) or dorsalis pedis artery (group II).
• Assessment of local and systemic variables potentially contributing to arterial damage.
• Measurement of blood flow velocity using a Doppler velocimeter probe with a 20-gauge Teflon cannula.
• Analysis of coagulation parameters including prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time.

Main Results:

• Duration of cannulation, prothrombin time, and partial thromboplastin time were significant predictors of post-cannulation blood flow.
• A majority of cannulated arteries showed reduced flow velocity for 24-72 hours post-cannula removal, with improvement by 120 hours.
• Six arteries (three in each group) experienced complete cessation of blood flow between 24-72 hours post-removal.
• No functional disability of the hand or foot was observed in any patient.

Conclusions:

• Cannulation duration and specific coagulation parameters are key factors influencing post-cannulation blood flow.
• While temporary flow reduction is common, significant complications like complete flow cessation can occur.
• Despite temporary flow alterations, radial and dorsalis pedis artery cannulation did not lead to permanent functional deficits in this cohort.