Radial Artery Access With Ultrasound Trial

Radial Artery Access With Ultrasound Trial

Radial artery access for cardiac catheterization can require multiple attempts. Multiple attempts increase the time required, patient discomfort, and the risk of arterial spasm. Ultrasound guidance has been shown in other studies to reduce the number of attempts and complications in central venous and femoral artery access. This study will test if the addition of ultrasound guidance reduces the number of attempts and time required to access the radial artery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult patients presenting for cardiac or peripheral catheterization with planned radial approach.
• Barbeau's or Allen's test indicating at least some degree of collateral circulation in palmar vessels
• Functional ultrasound equipment with ultrasound trained attending operator

Exclusion Criteria:

• Inability to provide informed consent
• Femoral access
• Emergency procedure (Shock, STEMI)
• End-stage renal disease on hemodialysis
• Previous ipsilateral puncture within 1 week