Bradycardia during Transradial Cardiac Catheterization due to Catheter Manipulation: Resolved by Catheter Removal

Maheedhar Gedela1, Vishesh Kumar2, Kashif Abbas Shaikh1

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Sioux Falls, SD, USA.

Insights

Bradycardia during transradial cardiac catheterization can be resolved by catheter pullback. This technique helps manage heart rate issues during coronary angiograms via radial artery access.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Interventional Cardiology

Background:

  • Transradial cardiac catheterization is a common procedure for coronary angiography.
  • Bradycardia is a potential complication during cardiac catheterization procedures.

Observation:

  • Two patients undergoing transradial coronary angiography developed significant bradycardia.
  • Bradycardia occurred upon catheter engagement in the ascending aorta or near the right brachiocephalic trunk.

Findings:

  • The catheter pullback technique effectively resolved bradycardia in both reported cases.
  • This suggests mechanical stimulation of aortic arch or carotid sinus receptors may cause bradycardia.

Implications:

  • Catheter pullback is a viable bedside technique for managing bradycardia during transradial procedures.
  • Awareness of this complication can improve patient safety in interventional cardiology.

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