Catheterization of the dorsalis pedis artery

Abstract

The radial artery is usually selected for arterial catheterization because puncture is easy and collateral flow is available. Often overlooked is the dorsalis pedis artery, which has the same advantages. This report reviews clinically relevant facts about catheterization of the dorsalis pedis artery. This route is especially useful when immobilization of a patient's hand is undesirable or when both radial arteries are inaccessible (extensive burns or trauma, damage from numerous previous catheterizations, etc). Rapid flushing of radial artery cannulae may cause embolization of clots or air bubbles to the brain and prolonged wrist dorsiflexion may damage the median nerve. Both problems are avoided by catheterizing the dorsalis pedis artery.