Use of a collagen plug versus manual compression for sealing arterial puncture site after cardiac catheterization

The aim of the study was to investigate (1) the safety and efficacy of the application of a collagen plug (Vasoseal(R)) at arterial puncture sites, (2) the hemostasis time, and (3) the comfort for the patient of a collagen plug (Vasoseal(R)) when compared with manual compression. Sixty-two patients were randomized either for application of a collagen plug (Vasoseal(R), group A, n=33) or manual compression (group B, n=29) after cardiac catheterization. All patients were evaluated for subjective pain score ranging from 1 to 5 (1=no pain up to 5=very strong pain). In addition the authors measured the time until hemostasis could be achieved. The patients were evaluated by duplex sonography for complications at days 1 and 7 after the procedure. The pain score demonstrated a significantly lower score in group A when compared with group B (P=0.01). The mean time for hemostasis was significantly lower in group A (mean 9.6 minutes) when compared with group B (mean 23.6 minutes) (P=0.0001). Regarding the complication rate there was no significant difference between the groups (group A vs group B, P=0.82). The authors conclude that the application of a collagen plug at the arterial puncture site is a safe and time-saving method. In addition it is less painful and therefore better tolerated than manual compression.