The radial artery: an alternative access site for diagnostic and interventional coronary procedures

Background Percutaneous techniques are routinely used in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease. The transfemoral route is the most frequently used arterial access site for performing these procedures Aim To describe a technique to gain arterial access via the radial artery to perform diagnostic and invasive procedures. Methods Patient selection is key to establishing a successful transradial service. Results There is a significant vascular complication rate when using the transfemoral route. Transfemoral access can also be difficult in patients with peripheral vascular disease. Arterial access via the right radial artery represents a realistic alternative to the transfemoral route for performing diagnostic and therapeutic coronary procedures. Conclusions The radial artery offers a safe and effective alternative access site for performing diagnostic and interventional coronary procedures. The need for alternatives to femoral artery access is critical in patients with severe peripheral vascular disease. The establishment and ongoing provision of radial artery intervention allows for a significant reduction in major vascular complication rates, earlier patient ambulation, increased patient comfort and the potential to establish day case coronary intervention.