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Updated: May 13, 2026

Interventional Diagnostic Procedure: A Practical Guide for the Assessment of Coronary Vascular Function
Published on: March 15, 2022
[Actually a routine matter: ischemia after catheterization of the radial artery]
I Pasternak1, M Rees, A Steinauer
1Chirurgische Klinik, Spital Uster, Uster, Schweiz.
Abstract:
A 76-year-old patient developed necrosis of the index finger after placement of a radial artery catheter. This article discusses the risks associated with invasive blood pressure monitoring and treatment options in cases of critical ischemia. The authors conclude that there is no consensus concerning optimal treatment and that a discussion on options for preoperative risk assessment and quickest possible recognition of such complications is worthwhile. Despite the risk of ischemia invasive blood pressure monitoring is an indispensable procedure.
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