A twist in the transradial coronary catheterisation

Area of Science:

• Interventional Cardiology
• Vascular Surgery
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• The transradial approach (TRA) for coronary angiography, first described in 1989, has seen a resurgence due to advancements in equipment and techniques.
• TRA offers significant advantages over the traditional transfemoral approach, including reduced access site complications, enhanced cost-effectiveness, and shorter hospital stays.
• Recent studies highlight clinical benefits of TRA, such as lower morbidity and cardiac mortality in ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients.

Observation:

• While generally safe, the transradial approach can present rare vascular complications.
• These complications may include radial artery spasm, dissection, occlusion, perforation, or compartment syndrome.
• This report details two uncommon cases involving catheter entrapment within the radial artery during transradial procedures.

Findings:

• The two presented cases illustrate unusual complications associated with the transradial approach.
• Catheter entrapment in the radial artery, though rare, can occur during coronary angiography.
• The outcomes of these specific cases are discussed, providing insights into management.

Implications:

• Understanding and managing rare complications like catheter entrapment is crucial for interventional cardiologists utilizing the transradial approach.
• These cases underscore the importance of vigilance and preparedness for atypical scenarios.
• Further analysis of such rare events can refine procedural safety and patient care protocols in transradial interventions.