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The effect of transradial coronary catheterization on upper limb function
Maarten A H van Leeuwen1, Nicolas M van Mieghem2, Mattie J Lenzen2
1Department of Cardiology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Insights
Transradial catheterization for coronary procedures does not significantly impact upper limb function or cause cold intolerance. This study confirms the safety of the radial artery approach for patient arm mobility and comfort post-procedure.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Interventions
- Musculoskeletal Health
- Patient Outcomes
Background:
- Transradial (TR) catheterization is a common approach for percutaneous coronary procedures.
- Potential effects of TR catheterization on upper limb function remain largely uninvestigated.
- Assessing upper limb function post-procedure is crucial for patient recovery and quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate changes in upper limb function following percutaneous coronary procedures via the radial artery.
- To determine if transradial catheterization impacts arm, shoulder, and hand functionality.
- To assess the incidence of cold intolerance in the upper extremity after transradial access.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 338 patients undergoing coronary catheterization were assessed.
- Upper limb function and cold intolerance were measured using validated self-reported questionnaires.
- Assessments were conducted before procedures and at 30-day follow-up, with statistical analysis using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.
Main Results:
- No significant changes in upper limb function were observed after procedures performed via the radial artery (p=0.06).
- Procedure-related extremity complaints showed no significant difference between radial and transfemoral access groups at 30-day follow-up (p=0.82).
- Cold intolerance in the upper extremity was not significantly affected by transradial access at 30-day follow-up (p=0.91).
Conclusions:
- Percutaneous coronary procedures performed through the radial artery do not adversely affect upper limb function.
- The transradial approach is a safe and effective method with no detrimental impact on arm functionality or comfort.
- Findings support the continued use of the radial artery for coronary interventions, ensuring patient limb health.
Objectives:
The aim of this study was to analyze the change of upper limb function when percutaneous coronary procedures were performed through the radial artery.
Background:
It is currently unknown if upper limb function is affected by transradial (TR) catheterization.
Methods:
Between January 2013 and February 2014, upper limb function was assessed in a total of 338 patients undergoing coronary catheterization in an ambulatory setting (85% radial approach, 15% femoral approach). Upper limb function was assessed with the self-reported shortened version of the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire. The presence and severity of upper extremity cold intolerance was assessed with the self-reported Cold Intolerance Symptom Severity questionnaire. Both questionnaires were completed before the catheterization and at 30-day follow-up. Higher scores represent worse upper limb functionality or symptoms. The nonparametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to assess the change of upper limb function and symptoms over time.
Results:
Upper limb function did not change significantly over time when catheterization was performed through the radial artery (p=0.06). The number of procedure-related extremity complaints that persisted during 30-day follow-up were not different between both access groups (TR access 10.5%, transfemoral access 11.5%; p=0.82). The upper extremity was not affected by cold intolerance after TR access at 30-day follow-up (p=0.91).
Conclusions:
Upper limb function was not affected when coronary catheterizations and interventions were performed through the radial artery.
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01:11Assessment of radial pulse
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