Successful transradial retrieval of an embolized guidewire during transradial vascular access

Transradial catheterization is associated with lower complication rates; however limited information is available regarding techniques to overcome unusual complications. We present a case of a 58-year-old male with suspected non-ST-elevated myocardial infarction who underwent transradial coronary angiography complicated by guidewire embolization into the radial artery and subsequent access loss. Successful retrieval of the embolized guidewire was achieved by re-accessing the same radial artery and the use of a 2 mm gooseneck microsnare. This technique was safe and prevented the need for surgical intervention or femoral access for retrieval, which are commonly described in the literature and can result in additional complications.