Distal Versus Proximal Radial Artery Access for Cardiac Catheterization: 1-Year Outcomes

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Vascular Access
• Interventional Cardiology

Background:

• Proximal radial artery (PRA) access for cardiac catheterization can compromise the artery's future use due to occlusion.
• Distal radial artery (DRA) access preserves the radial artery but its safety and impact on hand function require evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess and compare hand function and complication rates between DRA and PRA access for cardiac catheterization.

Main Methods:

• A single-center randomized trial involving 300 patients allocated 1:1 to DRA or PRA access.
• Primary endpoint: change in hand function (composite of Quick DASH, grip, and pinch tests) at 1 year.
• Secondary endpoints: access feasibility and complications.

Main Results:

• 216 patients completed 1-year follow-up (112 DRA, 104 PRA).
• No significant difference in hand grip, pinch grip, or Quick DASH scores between groups.
• Similar low rates of bleeding and radial artery occlusion between DRA and PRA.

Conclusions:

• Distal radial artery (DRA) access is a safe alternative for cardiac catheterization.
• DRA access does not lead to increased risk of hand dysfunction or radial artery occlusion compared to PRA at 1 year.