Transradial renal angioplasty: initial experience

We report our early experience of a new technique of renal angioplasty utilizing the radial approach. Certain anatomic considerations continue to make access from above via the arm the preferable approach in selected patients in renal artery stenosis. We have utilized the transradial technique for renal artery angioplasty and stenting successfully in four patients. The development of coronary guidewire (0.014")-based peripheral balloons and stent delivery systems has miniaturized equipment sufficiently to make the transradial approach attractive. Present equipment allows for stenting of renal arteries of up to 7 mm with the use of 6 Fr guiding catheters. Present equipment length remains a limitation in taller patients. The transradial approach should be considered in those patients with renal artery or aortoiliac anatomy favoring an approach from the arm.