Infectious complications related to the use of the Angio-Seal hemostatic puncture closure device

One hundred and eight coronary angiography procedures in which the Angio-Seal device was utilized were complicated by eight (7.4%) hematomas, of which two (1.9%) subsequently developed infection (Staphylococcus aureus endarteritis and S. aureus septic hematoma). The Angio-Seal device may be a risk factor for infection for two reasons: excessive hematoma formation (a known risk factor for endarteritis), and foreign material remaining within the arterial lumen and wall, thereby creating a nidus for infection.