Which vascular complications can arise from catheterization?

• A. Hemorrhage and infection
• B. Thrombosis and pseudoaneurysm
• C. Arteriovenous malformation and embolism
• D. Nerve damage and systemic infection

Answer: (B)

Thrombosis and pseudoaneurysm are indeed significant vascular complications that can arise from catheterization procedures.

Thrombosis refers to the formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel, which can occur when a catheter is placed in a blood vessel and disrupts normal blood flow. The presence of a catheter can also activate the coagulation cascade, leading to an increased risk of clot formation. This can result in complications such as ischemia, thrombosis of the vessel, or even embolization if a clot dislodges and travels to another site.

Pseudoaneurysms, on the other hand, are abnormal bulges that can occur at the site of catheter insertion due to damage to the vessel wall. This damage can cause blood to escape from the main vessel and gather in the surrounding tissue, creating a space that feels like an aneurysm but is not a true aneurysm. Pseudoaneurysms can lead to further complications, including pain and additional hemorrhage.

This emphasizes the importance of careful technique during catheterization and vigilant post-procedure monitoring to identify and manage these complications promptly.