WhichRadiologyDevice - The Resource for Radiology Device Reviews

This is an excellent device and has largely eliminated my concerns over hemostasis at the end of the case. Here are some fine points I have learned to increase chances of success with this device: (These may not be fully appreciated by anyone who has not used the device.) 1. Be sure to generously dissect the access site incision/track before puncture or the shaft of the device will not fit easily and can pull out the metal loops that allow vessel fixation during deployment. 2. Be cautious when pulling the metal loops along the vessel as they can become lodged on plaque and damage the vessel. If necessary the loops can be retracted with the abort button and can be redeployed after the plaque has been passed. 3. Be cautious when using in the arm as the vessels here may not be large enough to allow free passage of the metal loops as they are withdrawn. I would like to see a version that would allow you to maintain wire access in the event the clip does not result in hemostasis.

I have been using the Angioseal, through its various stages of development, for about 6 years and will continue to use it for the foreseeable future. It is easy to use, quick and effective. I have had very few complications: about 1% have failed to deploy correctly and have required the application of alternative haemostatis (usually a femostop). A similar number have deployed incorrectly and caused acute arterial obstruction requiring surgical intervention. The huge advantage to us is that patients can be ambulated quickly and discharged the same day in the vast majority of cases. In addition, patients who have been on anticoagulation can have interventional procedures carried out without worrying about haemostasis. The surgeons occasionally comment that the device makes their work a little harder if they have to open a vessel with an angioseal in place.