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The long-term effect of transradial coronary catheterisation on upper limb function
Maarten A H van Leeuwen1, Dirk J van der Heijden, Jailen Hermie
1Department of Cardiology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Transradial catheterization, a common cardiac procedure, does not negatively impact long-term upper limb function or cause cold intolerance. This study found no significant changes in limb functionality one year after the procedure.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Surgery
- Interventional Radiology
Background:
- Transradial access is increasingly utilized for cardiac catheterization.
- Potential long-term effects on upper limb function are not well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the long-term impact of transradial catheterization on upper limb function.
- To assess changes in upper extremity cold intolerance following the procedure.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 348 patients undergoing coronary catheterization were followed for one year.
- Upper limb function and cold intolerance were assessed using validated questionnaires (DASH, CISS) pre-procedure and at one-year follow-up.
- Statistical analysis utilized the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.
Main Results:
- No significant changes in upper limb function were observed at one-year follow-up (p=0.20).
- Cold intolerance in the upper extremity was not significantly affected at one-year follow-up (p=0.09).
- Extremity complaints, present in both access groups, diminished significantly over time (p<0.001).
Conclusions:
- Transradial catheterization does not adversely affect long-term upper limb function.
- The procedure is safe concerning upper extremity functionality and cold intolerance at one-year follow-up.
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