Complications of Aortography

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Abstract
In 195 cases involving retrograde percutaneous transfemoral aortography, 24 complications occurred (including 11 acute arterial occlusions lasting from 1 to 72 hours). All patients recovered without permanent residuals. In 80 cases of translumbar aortography, 10 complications occurred, none of which resulted in permanent residuals. In 44 cases of transfemoral percutaneous thoracic aortography, 11 complications occurred. Most of these were occlusive. Three had persistent claudication or diminished pulses or both. In 32 cases involving thoracic aortography via a brachial artery cut down, 21 complications occurred; all were occlusive. Three had persistent arm and hand claudication. Aortography requires hospitalization, and patients should be warned of the type and degree of risk. Patients must be observed carefully by a physician who is familiar with vascular problems. When an acute arterial occlusion develops (during or after procedure), it should be treated with vasodilators, warm environment, a slightly dependent position of the affected extremity, and in certain instances anticoagulants.