Abstract
Background: Bleeding and vascular access site complications are an important cause of morbidity after percutaneous femoral procedures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel hemostatic device for femoral closure after catheter ablation, in adjunct to short-time compression. Methods: Fourteen consecutive patients (57% male, mean age 64±12 years) undergoing catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (50%), supraventricular tachycardia (36%), atrial flutter (7%) and premature ventricular contraction (7%) by femoral approach received arterial sheath and multiple venous sheath removal with the QuikClot gauze use. Results: The mean ACT value at hemostasis time was 288 s (range 200–319 s). Hemostasis was achieved in a mean time of 6.0±1.5 min. Only one patient suffered re-bleeding, who was administered aspirin, clopidogrel and warfarin concurrently. Neither major bleeding, nor hematoma occurred. Conclusions: QuikClot gauze could obtain prompt hemostasis. Attention needs to be paid with patients treated with aspirin, clopidogrel and warfarin concurrently.
