The role of transradial diagnostic angiography.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the use of 4 Fr radial artery catheters as an alternative to both transbrachial and transfemoral approaches.


METHODS
Seventy examinations were performed via the transradial route using 4 Fr 130-cm-long pigtail catheters. Prior to puncture the radial artery was assessed with pulse oximetry to ensure that it did not contribute the dominant blood supply to the hand. Patients were reassessed for complications within 24 hr of the procedure.


RESULTS
Acceptable images were obtained in femoral arteriography, arch aortography, and selective carotid studies. In three of six renal arteriograms, images were suboptimal. There was a total technical failure rate of 5.7%. Significant complications were encountered in 4.3%, but no hand ischemia occurred.


CONCLUSIONS
The transradial route for arteriography is easy to learn and has a low complication rate. It is a reasonable alternative approach to transfemoral arteriography for true outpatient peripheral angiography and in cases where the transfemoral route is not feasible, though it did not prove satisfactory for renal arteriography in hypertensive patients.
Cowling
M G
MG
Department of Diagnostic Radiology, St. George's Healthcare NHS Trust, Blackshaw Road, Tooting, London SW17 0QT, United Kingdom.
Buckenham
T M
TM
Belli
A M
AM
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000792:Angiography / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D001027:Aortography; D002339:Carotid Arteries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D002406:Catheterization, Peripheral; D005260:Female; D005263:Femoral Artery / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017534:Radial Artery; D012077:Renal Artery / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging