Bleeding complications of femoral catheterization

CT has been used to evaluate hematomas resulting from femoral catheterization (percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, cardiac catheterization, angioplasty, valvuloplasty, and venous access) in 21 patients. Four distinct types of hematoma have been identified: retroperitoneal (N = 12); intraperitoneal (N = 3); groin/thigh (N = 9); and abdominal wall (N = 5). Seven patients had hematomas in two locations. CT contributed by estimating transfusion requirement, indicating the need for more intensive monitoring, and predicting the potential need for surgery. Type 1 and 2 bleeds were the most serious and had the most sequelae. Sequelae included transfusion in 17 patients (mean, 5 units/patient) and surgery in two patients