Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2026

Transradial Access Chemoembolization for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients
Published on: September 20, 2020
[Ultrasound guided radial artery cannulation: procedure description and literature review]
F J Carmona Monge1, M Martínez Lareo, A Núñez Reiz
1Unidad de Cuidados Críticos, Hospital Universitario Fundación Alcorcón, and Departamento de Enfermería, Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría y Psiquiatría, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain. javier.carmona@urjc.es
Abstract:
Arterial catheterization is the second most common invasive procedure performed in critical care units. These devices are essential in certain types of patients (the hemodinamically unstable or those who require regular evaluation of the gasometric values). Complications related to arterial cannulation are relatively scarce. However, there are no reliable indicators to predict the occurrence of radial artery occlusions or ischemic lesions in the hand after a radial cannulation procedure has been performed. Ultrasound-guided catheter insertion has been used for years to guide central venous cannulation in critical care, but its use has been more limited for arterial catheterization. This paper aims to describe the technique of ultrasound-guided radial artery catheterization and reviews the most important research papers that have evaluated the safety and efficacy of this procedure in the adult population.
Related Concept Videos
Assessment 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:
Assessment 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
Imaging Studies VII: Vascular Imaging
Assessing Blood pressure using a doppler ultrasound
Pre-Procedural Guidelines for Doppler Ultrasound Blood Pressure Assessment:
Preparation of Equipment:
Assessment of blood pressure in brachial artery(one-step method)
Prepare for the Procedure:
Arteries of the Upper Limbs

