Distal versus conventional radial access for coronary angiography and intervention: Design and rationale of DISCO...

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Interventions
• Vascular Access Techniques
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Transradial access (TRA) is standard for coronary procedures due to safety and patient benefits.
• Radial artery occlusion (RAO) is the most common TRA complication, limiting future procedures and interventions.
• Distal radial access (DRA) shows promise in reducing RAO risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the incidence of RAO between DRA and TRA.
• To provide the first large-scale multicenter randomized evidence on DRA versus TRA for RAO rates.

Main Methods:

• The DISCO RADIAL trial is a prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled superiority trial.
• 1300 patients undergoing coronary angiography or PCI will be randomized to DRA or TRA.
• The primary endpoint is RAO incidence assessed by ultrasound at discharge.

Main Results:

• The DISCO RADIAL trial is designed to provide definitive evidence on RAO rates.
• Results will inform best practices for radial access in cardiology.

Conclusions:

• The study will establish whether DRA is superior to TRA in preventing RAO.
• Findings will guide the adoption of DRA as a potentially safer alternative access method.