Use of vascular closure device is safe and effective in electrophysiological procedures

Ilir Maraj, Adam S. Budzikowski, Waleed Ali, Crisitina A. Mitre, John Kassotis

Little is known about the usefulness and safety of vascular closure devices (VCDs) in electrophysiological procedures. We present a retrospective analysis of our experience assessing the utility and outcomes of collagen vascular closure device (Angioseal) in patients that required periprocedural anticoagulation and multiple vascular access sites. An retrospective chart review of patients who have undergone the deployment of VCD following electrophysiological procedures. In 26 patients (16 males, age 57 ± 15 years, weight 96 ± 21 kg), a total of 76 VCD were deployed. Seventy-three VCDs in femoral veins (right or left) and three in femoral artery. The mean number of VCD per patient was 3 (range, 2-4). VCD was successfully deployed in 75 out of 76 access sites. One patient was noted to have ecchymosis in both groins during follow-up visit. No other complications were noted. We provide evidence that a collagen plug-based VCD designed for arterial closure can be safely and effectively used to close multiple venous accesses even in the same vein. This can be accomplished with a venotomy size up to 2 Fr larger than the size of the closure device.