title: Bacterial colonization of radial artery catheters.
abstract: In 147 radial artery catheterizations performed, blanching or embolization was noted in 10.8% of the patients. Only a single episode of catheter-related septicemia was observed (0.6%) Mean duration of catheterization was 48 +/- 6 hours. Of 110 catheters cultured 25.4% grew bacteria; most organisms cultured were nonpathogenic. Duration of catheterization and intravascular infusion did not alter the incidence of catheter colonization.
mesh_terms: D001158:Arteries; D001419:Bacteria / Q000302:isolation & purification; D001431:Bacteriological Techniques; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000009:adverse effects; D005542:Forearm / Q000098:blood supply*; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D012306:Risk; D018805:Sepsis / Q000209:etiology