Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 16, 2026
Creating Radio-cephalic Arteriovenous Fistula in the Forearm with a Modified No-Touch Technique
Published on: April 1, 2022
A safe and cost-effective approach to minimally invasive radial artery harvesting
Kimberly Roskoph1, Forozan Navid, Molly Jubeck
1Department of Surgery, UPMC Shadyside, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15232, USA. kimroskoph@hotmail.com
Purpose:
We describe a minimally invasive, cost effective, and safe method of radial artery harvesting.
Description:
After obtaining informed consent and completing a preoperative evaluation, 169 radial arteries were harvested. Harvesting was accomplished through a 3-cm proximal mid forearm incision with exposure provided by a modified self-retaining lighted retractor.
Evaluation:
A total of 169 radial arteries were successfully harvested. The average incision length was 2.9 cm, radial artery length was 15.8 cm, and harvest time was 32.7 minutes. No trauma to the artery or graft spasm was evident. No procedure required conversion to an open technique. Superficial cellulitis occurred in 2 patients (1.2%) and wound infection in 1 (0.6%). Three patients (1.8%) experienced intermittent residual dysesthesia. All of the patients were highly satisfied with the excellent aesthetic results. This approach allowed for a substantial cost savings compared with other minimally invasive techniques.
Conclusions:
Direct minimally invasive radial artery harvesting is an acceptable alternative approach to radial artery harvesting. This method is safe, cost effective, easily reproducible, and aesthetically pleasing.
Related Concept Videos
01:11Assessment of radial pulse
The radial pulse, located at the wrist, is often the preferred site for assessing peripheral pulse because of its accessibility and dependability. The process of determining the radial pulse involves several steps:
01:25Assessment of apical radial pulse
The A-R pulse assessment involves simultaneous evaluation of the apical and radial pulses. When the apical and radial pulse rates vary, this assessment helps identify a pulse deficit.
Pre-Procedural Preparation