Advice for Patients Following Insertion of a Closure Device

Introduction

This leaflet is designed for patients who have had a closure device inserted following their procedure.

Why do I need a closure device?

Following your procedure, the femoral artery (a large artery in the leg, extending from your hip to knee) at the top of your leg has been sealed by a closure device. This closes the hole in the artery wall and reduces the risk of bleeding and the amount of time you must remain on bed rest.

Types of Closure Devices

There are different types of closure devices that may be used depending on your procedure.

These are:

• Proglide - This device uses a non-absorbable suture which stays within the artery wall. This does not affect access if re-intervening on the same artery.
• Exo-seal - This device is completely absorbed naturally within 60 to 90 days. You will be given an Exo-seal information card which you should keep for 90 days.
• Angio-seal - This device is completely absorbed naturally within 60 to 90 days. You will be given an Angio-seal information card which you should keep for 90 days.
• Starclose - This device is composed of a metal clip measuring 4 mm that is placed on the outside of the artery. The clip remains in-situ for lifelong but does not affect access if the artery needs re-intervention.

What happens after the closure device has been inserted?

• You may sit up at an angle of between 30° to 40° immediately.
• You will be able to get up after about 30 minutes and may be discharged one hour after this.
• You may move around gently for the first 48 to 72 hours and avoid lifting. You may then return to your normal activities.
• If you cough, sneeze or strain during the first 12 hours, place your hand over the puncture site to support it.
• Do not drive for 24 hours following your procedure.
• The dressing should be left in place for 48 hours and changed if it gets wet.
• Avoid bathing for three to four days, but you can take showers.
• You may feel a pea sized lump in your groin, but this will disappear in a couple of months.

Further information

If you experience any problems or side effects related to the closure device or the area around the puncture site you are advised to contact your GP.

Side effects may include:

• Fever.
• Bleeding.
• Persistent tenderness or swelling in the groin.
• Rash.
• Numbness or pain in the leg when walking.
• Redness or oozing from the site.