Routine use of ultrasound-guided access reduces access site-related complications after lower extremity percutaneous revascularization

Objective We sought to elucidate the risks for access site-related complications (ASCs) after percutaneous lower extremity revascularization and to evaluate the benefit of routine ultrasound-guided access (RUS) in decreasing ASCs. Methods We reviewed all consecutive percutaneous revascularizations (percutaneous transluminal angioplasty or stent) performed for lower extremity atherosclerosis at our institution from 2002 to 2012. RUS began in September 2007. Primary outcome was any ASC (bleeding, groin or retroperitoneal hematoma, vessel rupture, or thrombosis). Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine predictors of ASC. Results A total of 1371 punctures were performed on 877 patients (43% women; median age, 69 [interquartile range, 60-78] years) for claudication (29%), critical limb ischemia (59%), or bypass graft stenosis (12%) with 4F to 8F sheaths. There were 72 ASCs (5%): 52 instances of bleeding or groin hematoma, nine pseudoaneurysms, eight retroperitoneal hematomas, two artery lacerations, and one thrombosis. ASCs were less frequent when RUS was used (4% vs 7%; P  = .02). Multivariable predictors of ASC were age >75 years (odds ratio [OR], 2.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-3.7; P  = .03), congestive heart failure (OR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.1-1.3; P  = .02), preoperative warfarin use (OR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.1-3.5; P  = .02), and RUS (OR, 0.4; 95% CI, 0.2-0.7; P P  = .79). RUS lowered ASCs in those >75 years (5% vs 12%; P P  = .47). RUS did not decrease VCD failure (6% vs 4%; P  = .79). Conclusions We were able to decrease the rate of ASCs during lower extremity revascularization with the implementation of RUS. VCDs did not affect ASCs. Particular care should be taken with patients >75 years old, those with congestive heart failure, and those taking warfarin.