Use of radial artery as an access during coronary angiography: experience and further prospects

The authors present their own experience in using the radial artery for diagnostic coronarography. Twenty two transradial studies were made during a year and a half. Following the studies, complications were as follows: failure at puncture in 1 (4.5%) patient, local and cardial complications being absent. The authors concluded that the radial access is a promising alternative to the routine femoral one now. The use of the radial access opens up new vistas for coronary angiography performed in the outpatient setting, by making this technique accessible to patients with coronary heart disease who need to be thoroughly studied.