Radial Arteriovenous Fistula Formation After Transradial Cardiac Catheterization

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Vascular Surgery
• Interventional Cardiology

Background:

• Transradial access is increasingly preferred for cardiac catheterization due to its benefits over femoral access.
• Despite advantages, transradial procedures carry risks, including the rare complication of arteriovenous fistula formation.

Observation:

• This case report details a patient who developed a radial arteriovenous fistula.
• The fistula was identified seven weeks after undergoing transradial coronary catheterization.

Findings:

• The patient presented with symptoms related to the iatrogenic arteriovenous fistula.
• Diagnosis was confirmed through clinical evaluation and likely imaging (though not explicitly stated in the abstract).

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of recognizing arteriovenous fistulas as a potential complication of transradial catheterization.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate management, such as surgical repair, are crucial for favorable patient outcomes.