Ultrasound-Guided Retrograde Popliteal Artery Catheterization: Experience in 174 Consecutive Patients

Purpose:To assess the safety and efficacy of ultrasound (US) guidance during retrograde popliteal artery catheterization (RPAC) and identify the risk factors for late hemostasis and complications.Methods:A retrospective review was undertaken of consecutive patients who underwent grayscale US-guided RPAC during the last 8 years. Chart review identified 174 patients (150 men; mean age 61±10 years, range 37–84) with 247 iliofemoral lesions, which were treated via US-guided RPAC. Complications were classified as puncture-related versus angioplasty-related and major versus minor. Risk factors for complications and late hemostasis were evaluated with logistic and linear regression analyses, respectively.Results:All 234 US-guided RPACs were technically successful. No arteriovenous fistula (AVF) or dissection/thrombosis of the popliteal artery was observed. The mean time to hemostasis was 6.9±2.3 minutes. The presence of femoral stenosis (versus occlusion) and use of large (6 to 7-F) sheaths were significant risk...