A Novel Intervention to Treat Failed Angio-Seal Footplate Deployment: Two Case Series

INTRODUCTION: Vascular closure devices are commonly used to achieve rapid haemostasis and early ambulation following arterial puncture for endovascular procedures. Although device failure rates are low, the consequences of arterial occlusion include severe limb ischaemia. We describe a novel endovascular technique for the treatment of Angio-Seal arterial closure device (Terumo, Europe NV) failure causing femoral artery occlusion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We describe 2 cases of lower limb angioplasty performed for critical limb ischaemia where the access site was closed using an Angio-Seal according to the manufacturer instructions for use (IFU). In both cases, however, ultrasound could not be used during deployment of the Angio-Seal due to body habitus and small subcutaneous haematoma. In both cases, the device failed and occluded the femoral artery. RESULTS: Access was achieved via a retrograde approach from the contralateral limb in one case and a retrograde approach from the ipsilateral profunda artery in the other case. Angiography confirmed that the footplate of the Angio-Seal had occluded the femoral artery. Subsequently, the occlusion was crossed and a short balloon-mounted bare metal stent placed to push the footplate against the arterial wall that resulted in resolution of the occlusion and haemorrhage control. CONCLUSIONS: Crossing the occlusion caused by failure of the Angio-Seal closure device and subsequent stenting resulted in satisfactory relief of the femoral artery occlusion and haemostasis without the added risks of open surgical revascularisation and general anaesthetic.