Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 9, 2026
Transradial Access Chemoembolization for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients
Published on: September 20, 2020
Transulnar approach for coronary catheterization in patients with a harvested ipsilateral radial artery: A case
Michael Koutouzis1, Christos Maniotis1, Maria Agelaki1
1Second Department of Cardiology, Red Cross General Hospital, Athens, Greece.
Insights
Forearm catheterization offers better outcomes than femoral access. A case series shows successful coronary catheterization via the ulnar artery after radial artery harvesting, avoiding forearm artery occlusion.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular medicine
- Interventional cardiology
- Vascular surgery
Background:
- The forearm (radial) artery approach for coronary catheterization is linked to superior patient outcomes compared to the traditional femoral artery approach.
- Concerns regarding potential forearm artery occlusion post-procedure often lead to the femoral approach, despite its less favorable results.
Observation:
- This case series examines patients who previously underwent radial artery harvesting.
- These patients were subsequently catheterized using the ipsilateral ulnar artery.
Findings:
- Successful coronary catheterization was achieved in all patients via the ulnar artery.
- No complications, including forearm artery occlusion, were recorded in this cohort.
Implications:
- Ulnar artery access presents a viable and safe alternative for coronary catheterization in patients with a harvested radial artery.
- This approach may expand the utility of minimally invasive forearm access, improving patient outcomes and reducing reliance on transfemoral procedures.
Abstract:
Forearm approach for coronary catheterization is associated with better outcomes, compared to the femoral approach. However, the possibility of post catheterization forearm artery occlusion is a medical concern, which leads many patients to be treated transfemorally. We present a case series of patients who had a harvested radial artery and were successfully catheterized from ipsilateral ulnar artery without any complications recorded.
Related Concept Videos
01:11Assessment 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:
01:21Cardiac Catheterization II: Right Heart Catheterization
01:24Cardiac Catheterization III: Left Heart Catheterization
01:25Assessment 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
01:28Cardiac Catheterization I: Pre-Procedure Overview