Improvement and miniaturization of catheter equipment now allows the radial artery (patient’s wrist) to be used for coronary investigation and intervention (Schneider/Namic). It is called the transradial approach. This is a new procedure in the United States, though it is already routinely used in some hospitals in Europe and Canada.

The advantages of the new procedure include:

Easier access to the artery due to its superficial location in the wrist. This may be the only access for patients suffering from severe peripheral vascular disease, obesity or compromised femoral arteries.

The superficial location and smaller vessel size allow for better hemostasis (control of bleeding) once the procedure is completed, in comparison to the femoral artery in the groin. Significantly less entry site bleeding complications result from using the transradial approach.

Lack of important structures close to the radial artery, a good collateral ulnar artery circulation and its superficial position also contribute to a low complication rate.

No flat on the back bed rest! Less complications translate into less nursing time required, especially during the first two hours after the procedure; less intensity of care; shorter length of stay; and lowered hospital costs - a potential cost savings of $1,600 to $2,300. Typically, with a transfemoral approach, six hours of complete bed rest are required for complete stoppage of bleeding after the groin puncture. Patients must lie completely still during this time with a weight on the groin area to stop the bleeding. This is inconvenient and especially uncomfortable for patients with back problems. With the transradial approach, patients may generally move about within a short time after the procedure and usually leave the hospital the same day, which may result in lower hospital costs.  

Less complications translate into less nursing time required, especially during the first two hours after the procedure; less intensity of care; shorter length of stay; and lowered hospital costs - a potential cost savings of $1,600 to $2,300. Typically, with a transfemoral approach, six hours of complete bed rest are required for complete stoppage of bleeding after the groin puncture. Patients must lie completely still during this time with a weight on the groin area to stop the bleeding. This is inconvenient and especially uncomfortable for patients with back problems. With the transradial approach, patients may generally move about within a short time after the procedure and usually leave the hospital the same day, which may result in lower hospital costs.

Robert M. Siegel, M.D., Medical Director of Advanced Cardiac Specialists, performed one of the first transradial catheterization procedures in the Valley at our cardiac catheterization lab then housed at Phoenix Memorial Hospital.

While the new technology is not available for all patients, for those who do qualify, there is a high degree of success and a lower complication rate, resulting in early mobilization and discharge.

If you are a physician and are interested in obtaining additional information on Transradial Catheterization, or if you have a patient who you would like to refer for the procedure, please contact us at (480) 926-6990 or e-mail us at bobbie.boyd@acs-im.com.