The most common complication of arterial catheterization is?

Hemorrhage is indeed the most common complication associated with arterial catheterization procedures. This can occur due to various factors, including inadequate hemostasis at the catheter insertion site, arterial injury during insertion or manipulation of the catheter, or systemic anticoagulation that may have been employed to prevent thrombus formation. In many cases, if the bleeding is significant and not addressed promptly, it can lead to hematoma formation, further complicating the situation and potentially requiring surgical intervention.

Understanding the associated risks and implementing proper techniques during catheterization, including careful monitoring of the access site and employing closure devices when appropriate, can help mitigate the risk of hemorrhage. Other complications, such as arterial thrombosis, infection, and pseudoaneurysm, may also occur but are less common than hemorrhagic events resulting from catheterization.