Radial catheterization pitfalls

Potential Pitfalls of the Radial Approach to Cardiac Catheterization

 * 1) Spasm
 * 2) Vessel tortuosity
 * 3) Guide catheter support and selection may be reduced
 * 4) Loss of radial artery pulse in 4% of cases
 * 5) Potential increase in the duration of the procedure and fluroscopy time
 * 6) The radial artery has been instrumented should there be a desire to use it as a conduit for CABG
 * 7) It is the second and not the first approach learned by trainees
 * 8) There is a learning curve in treating spasm, navigating anatomy, and manipulating catheters
 * 9) Anatomically there can be a loop in the artery near the brachial in about 10% of cases
 * 10) Smaller sheaths are required (4-8F)