A Simple Method of Removing Intra-Arterial Clots Formed During Catheterization

To prevent the formation of an emboli zing platelet and fibrin clot during angiography, the author advocates that preparatory to catheter withdrawal the femoral artery below the puncture site be firmly compressed; continuous suction be exerted as the catheter is slowly withdrawn, in an attempt to entrap the thrombus; and that the artery be allowed to bleed for a few seconds. He has used this method in 49 cases, recovering clot by massage in 5 and by suction in 16. Other precautionary measures include anticoagulation and use of antithrombogenic catheters.