Pseudoaneurysm after transradial cardiac catheterization: Case series and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION: Radial artery access for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures offers clear advantages in terms of vascular complications. While radial artery occlusion may occasionally complicate radial artery access, new methods of hemostasis are now utilized to avoid this complication. In contrast, pseudoaneurysm following radial artery access is an extremely uncommon complication. METHODS: We describe a series of patients who developed radial artery pseudoaneurysm after their procedure. RESULTS: Five patients developed radial pseudoaneurysm after diagnostic and interventional procedures, likely reflecting inadequate hemostasis following the procedure and delayed bleeding complicating systemic anticoagulation. CONCLUSIONS: While uncommon, radial artery pseudoaneurysm may complicate cardiac catheterization procedures, with anticoagulation an important contributor. The clinical presentation, likely precipitating mechanisms and treatment options are discussed.