Closure of carotid artery puncture site with a percutaneous device.

The surgical treatment of traumatic neck injuries in patients with hostile anatomy is associated with higher risk of complications, due to the technical challenge and associated clinical conditions. The use of a percutaneous closure device for removal of a 7.5 Fr sheath, nonintentionally implanted into the carotid artery, is reported. The right common carotid sheath was removed after introducing a 0.035-inch guidewire; the Angioseal 8 Fr device was then introduced over the wire, successfully sealing the puncture site. Duplex scan control showed patency of the carotids, sealing of the puncture, and adequate flow in the jugular vein and carotid arteries. This maneuver allowed the safe placement of a percutaneous arterial device (Angioseal) to close the puncture site.