Distal transradial access for targeted spinal angiography and embolization

Area of Science:

• Interventional Radiology
• Vascular Surgery
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Spinal catheter angiography is crucial for evaluating and treating spinal vascular lesions.
• The conventional approach involves femoral artery access and selective catheterization of spinal arteries.
• A novel distal transradial access technique through the anatomical snuffbox was investigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and feasibility of distal transradial access for targeted spinal angiography.
• To assess this approach for the investigation and treatment of spinal lesions.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of eight patients undergoing transradial spinal angiography and embolization (August 2019 - January 2022).
• Targeted spinal angiography performed via distal transradial access.
• Outcome measures documented to assess safety and efficacy.

Main Results:

• Successful radial access in all patients.
• Seven patients with spinal tumors underwent successful embolization and segmental artery occlusion.
• One patient with a spinal dural AV fistula required laminectomy due to feeding vessel tortuosity.
• No access site hemorrhagic complications; one transient case of hand numbness resolved within 24 hours.

Conclusions:

• Distal transradial access is a safe and feasible option for spinal angiography.
• This technique is suitable for targeted treatment of selected spinal lesions.
• Offers a potentially less invasive alternative to traditional femoral access.