CT and anatomic study of postcatheterization hematomas.

The appearance of hematomas resulting from transfemoral catheterization as depicted with computed tomography (CT) has been infrequently reported. The authors devised a system for classifying the CT appearance of such iatrogenic hematomas that is based on the anatomic location and route of bleeding. There are four different types of hematomas: retroperitoneal, intraperitoneal, groin and thigh, and abdominal wall. Bleeding spreads along the fascial planes, and the type of hematoma probably depends on whether the bleeding is confined to the femoral sheath or spreads into the femoral triangle. Recognition of the different types is essential as they may have different clinical implications.