Infection is an unusual but serious complication of a femoral artery catheterization site closure device

Percutaneous devices have been developed to close the femoral artery punctu re site after catheterization. Because direct compression is not needed, th e devices save time for the treating health-care provider, reduce patient d iscomfort, and obviate the need for post-catheterization bed rest. Reported complications with use of these devices are similar in nature and frequenc y to those accompanying direct compression. Complications of infection requ iring surgical treatment are exceedingly rare with use of these devices. We describe a series of five catheterization site infections occurring among 1807 patients (0.3%) whose femoral artery puncture was closed with a percut aneous suture closure device. All patients required operative intervention and there was one late death. Physicians should be aware of this uncommon b ut serious complication to expedite evaluation and treatment of patients wi th suspected infections from these devices.