Prevalence and Risk Factors of Forearm Hematoma Following Radial Access Cardiac Catheterization: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objectives: The primary aim of this study was to assess the frequency of forearm hematoma following cardiac catheterization via radial access and to explore its correlation with demographic variables, clinical factors such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus, and procedural factors, including percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and hematological grading. Methodology: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between November 15, 2023, and May 15, 2024, at the Peshawar Institute of Cardiology. A total of 3,244 patients who underwent cardiac catheterization via radial access were included. Hematomas were classified into four grades based on severity: Grade 1 (minor swelling without skin discoloration), Grade 2 (moderate swelling with skin discoloration), Grade 3 (severe swelling requiring intervention), and Grade 4 (extensive swelling with potential complications necessitating immediate medical attention). Demographic data (age, gender), clinical factors (hypertension, diabetes), and procedural factors (PCI) were collected and analyzed. Statistical analysis, including Chi-Square tests and T-tests, was performed to identify correlations between variables, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: The overall incidence of forearm hematoma was found to be 0.8%. Female gender (p = 0.009) and hypertension (p = 0.04) were identified as significant risk factors. No significant correlation was observed with diabetes (p = 0.322) or age. Severe hematomas (Grades 3 and 4) accounted for 0.8% of cases, with Grade 4 hematomas requiring immediate medical intervention (p = 0.001). Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of targeted preventive strategies, especially for high-risk groups such as female patients and those with hypertension. These results underscore the need for optimizing radial access protocols to minimize complications and improve patient outcomes. Future research should focus on refining procedural techniques, evaluating long-term outcomes, and enhancing the safety of radial access catheterization.