Hand Ischemia after Radial Artery Cannulation

Feasibility and radial artery occlusion rate of sheathless distal transradial access using balloon guide catheters

Distal transradial access (dTRA), performed through an anatomical snuffbox, minimizes post-procedural burdens of endovascular treatments. However, despite the benefits of balloon-guide catheters (BGCs), their use in dTRA is limited by their small radial artery diameter. Herein, we evaluated the feasibility and radial artery occlusion (RAO) rate of 8Fr BGCs used in sheathless dTRA. This retrospective study reviewed patients treated with sheathless dTRA using an 8Fr Optimo at a single center between July 2023 and May 2024. dTRA procedures were performed under general anesthesia in patients not requiring urgent treatment. The RAO was assessed using ultrasonography 24 h after the procedure. The demographic and procedural characteristics were compared between the radial artery patency and occlusion groups. Of 170 patients, 50 underwent dTRA, and 43 (86%) completed the procedure. RAO occurred in 12/43 (28%) patients with dTRA. Univariate and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses demonstrated that the median radial artery diameter was significantly smaller in the RAO group (P < 0.001), with an optimal cut-off value of 2.4 mm to predict RAO. Complications included minor cerebral ischemia in two patients, but no severe ischemia was observed. Sheathless dTRA using an 8Fr Optimo BGC is feasible, but the risk of RAO should be noted, particularly in patients with small radial artery diameters. This study suggests a radial artery diameter cutoff value of 2.4 mm to predict RAO, aiding access decisions for large-bore BGC. Further multicenter prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings and assess long-term outcomes.

Compensatory response of the radial and ulnar arteries after radial artery cannulation in hypertensive patients

BACKGROUND

Limited literature exists on the vascular reactivity of the radial and ulnar arteries in hypertensive patients following radial artery cannulation. This study assessed the vascular reactivity of the radial and ulnar arteries by comparing Doppler images and laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) obtained from both normotensive and hypertensive patients after radial artery cannulation under general anesthesia.

METHODS

This study recruited 99 normotensive and 99 hypertensive patients who required arterial cannulation under general anesthesia. In the course of research, to evaluate the impact of hypertension on arterial reactivity, we employed duplex Doppler ultrasonography to measure the inner diameter (ID), resistance index (RI) and mean volume flow (MVF) of both arteries at five different time points. We equally performed perfusion of thumb and little finger by laser speckle contrast imaging.

RESULTS

After radial artery cannulation, the hypertensive group showed less increase in radial ID and less decrease in RI compared to the normotensive group. The MVF increase was also less pronounced in hypertensive patients, while both groups demonstrated equivalent ulnar ID changes, and the normotensive group exhibited a more significant decrease in RI and a greater MVF increase. Thumb perfusion decreased post-cannulation in both groups, with the hypertensive group showing a less robust recovery. Little finger perfusion increased after artery cannulation in both groups, but the hypertensive group's increase was lower. The incidence of vasospasm in the hypertensive group is higher than that in the normotensive group.

CONCLUSIONS

The radial and ulnar arteries in hypertensive patients may lack a compensatory response to radial artery cannulation during general anesthesia.

Incidence and Prognostic Factors of Radial Artery Occlusion in Transradial Coronary Catheterization

Background/Objectives: Radial artery occlusion (RAO) is the most common complication of transradial coronary catheterization. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the incidence of RAO and identify the risk factors that predispose patients to it. Methods: We conducted an investigator-initiated, prospective, multicenter, open-label study involving 1357 patients who underwent cardiac catheterization via the transradial route for angiography and/or a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify potential predictors of RAO occurrence. Additionally, a subgroup analysis only for patients undergoing PCIs was performed. Results: The incidence of RAO was 9.5% overall, 10.6% in the angiography-only group and 6.2% in the PCI group. Independent predictors of RAO were as follows: (i) the female gender (aOR = 1.72 (1.05-2.83)), (ii) access site cross-over (aOR = 4.33 (1.02-18.39)), (iii) increased total time of the sheath in the artery (aOR = 1.01 (1.00-1.02)), (iv) radial artery spasms (aOR = 2.47 (1.40-4.36)), (v) the presence of a hematoma (aOR = 2.28 (1.28-4.06)), (vi) post-catheterization dabigatran use (aOR = 5.15 (1.29-20.55)), (vii) manual hemostasis (aOR = 1.94 (1.01-3.72)) and (viii) numbness at radial artery ultrasound (aOR = 8.25 (1.70-40)). Contrariwise, two variables were independently associated with increased odds for radial artery patency (RAP): (i) PCI performance (aOR = 0.19 (0.06-0.63)), and (ii) a higher dosage of intravenous heparin per patient weight (aOR = 0.98 (0.96-0.99)), particularly, a dosage of >50 IU/kg (aOR = 0.56 (0.31-1.00)). In the PCI subgroup, independent predictors of RAO were as follows: (i) radial artery spasms (aOR = 4.48 (1.42-14.16)), (ii) the use of intra-arterial nitroglycerin as a vasodilator (aOR = 7.40 (1.67-32.79)) and (iii) the presence of symptoms at echo (aOR = 3.80 (1.46-9.87)), either pain (aOR = 2.93 (1.05-8.15)) or numbness (aOR = 4.66 (1.17-18.57)). On the other hand, the use of intra-arterial verapamil as a vasodilator (aOR = 0.17 (0.04-0.76)) was independently associated with a greater frequency of RAP. Conclusions: The incidence of RAO in an unselected, all-comers European population after transradial coronary catheterization for angiography and/or PCIs is similar to that reported in the international literature. Several RAO prognostic factors have been confirmed, and new ones are described. The female gender, radial artery trauma and manual hemostasis are the strongest predictors of RAO. Our results could help in the future identification of patients at higher risk of RAO, for whom less invasive diagnostic procedures maybe preferred, if possible.

Severe ischemia after radial artery catheterization: A literature review of published cases

INTRODUCTION

Severe ischemia is a rare complication of radial artery catheterization (RAC). This study aims to summarize risk factors of RAC-elicited severe hand ischemia, preventive, and therapeutic management.

METHODS

Literature search was conducted in eight electronic English and Chinese databases to identify relevant published cases. Data of interest was extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS

Database search identified 28 articles reporting cases of 57 patients developing hand ischemia following RAC. Patients aged between 1 day and 88 years. The indications for RAC included surgery, shock, cardiac arrest, and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) admission. Identified risk factors included pre-existing vascular diseases, hypotension, arterial anatomical abnormality or small diameter, vasoconstrictors, and catheter-related problems. Totally, 18 patients complained pain; 32 developed discoloration; 19 pulselessness; 3 paresthesia; 13 swolleness and 19 coldness. Eventually, 30 patients recovered well, but 20 patients unfortunately underwent digital amputation and three patients deceased due to non-RAC-related causes.

CONCLUSION

Severe hand ischemia following RAC is a rare complication, with the reported incidence of approximately 0.09%. There is no definite predictor for RAC-related hand ischemia, but patients with risk factors are prone to the occurrence of hand ischemia. It's vital to initiate early recognition and proactive strategies for a best practice RAC insertion.

Radial Artery Reconstruction After Iatrogenic Cannulation-Related Occlusion: A Case Report

A 59-year-old male, with a history of angiogram via the left radial artery during the workup for multi-trauma, presented to the hand clinic with a 14-day history of progressive critical ischemia in the left thumb and index finger, along with dry gangrene of the distal index fingertip. Radial artery occlusion was confirmed on imaging. The patient underwent radial artery thrombectomy, arterial reconstruction with vein graft, and amputation of the index fingertip. Postoperatively, perfusion to the thumb and index finger was restored, resulting in the resolution of associated pain and hypersensitivity. This case demonstrates the delayed presentation of ischemia following radial artery cannulation, which was successfully managed with radial artery thrombectomy and a saphenous vein graft.

What Factors Are Associated With Arterial Line-Related Limb Ischemia in Patients on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation? A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVES

The primary purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with the development of arterial line-related limb ischemia in patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The authors also sought to characterize and report the outcomes of patients who developed arterial line-related limb ischemia.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

A single academic tertiary referral ECMO center.

PARTICIPANTS

Consecutive patients who were treated with ECMO over 6 years.

INTERVENTIONS

Use of arterial line.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

A total of 278 consecutive ECMO patients were included, with 19 (7%) patients developing arterial line-related limb ischemia during the ECMO run. Postcannulation Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.20, 95% CI 1.08-1.32), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation-II (aOR 0.84, 95% CI 0.74-0.95), and adjusted Vasopressor Dose Equivalence (aOR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01-1.05) scores were independently associated with the development of arterial line-associated limb ischemia. A SOFA score of ≥17 at the time of ECMO cannulation had an 80% sensitivity and 87% specificity for predicting arterial line-related limb ischemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Arterial line-related limb ischemia is much more common in ECMO patients than in the typical intensive care unit setting. The SOFA score may be useful in identifying which patients may be at risk for arterial line-related limb ischemia. As this was a single-center retrospective study, these results are inherently exploratory, and prospective multicenter studies are necessary to validate these results.

An Overview of the Treatment Strategies of Extremities Ischemia in the Intensive Care Unit

OBJECTIVES

 To investigate the effect of the peripheral block on peripheral ischemia on the extremities of patients in the intensive care unit (ICU).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty-two patients with ischemic peripheral vascular disease were divided retrospectively into two groups; Group 1 (patients who underwent USG-guided infraclavicular or femoral block, n=20) and Group 2 (patients who did not experience any block, n=42). The demographic characteristics of the patients, the diagnosis of hospitalization, the day when the circulatory disorder developed, laboratory tests at the time of diagnosis, other medical treatments applied, presence of inotropic support, the response of ischemia on extremities, amputation, duration of hospital stay, discharge and mortality were compared.

RESULTS

The most common reason for hospitalization was cerebrovascular disease. There was no statistical difference between the groups regarding age, gender, height, body weight, and diagnosis. There was no statistical difference between the groups regarding hematocrit, lactate, creatinine, and albumin values, the day when the peripheral ischemia developed in extremities, inotropic and prednisolone use, presence of cannulation, length of hospital stays, and mortality. The number of patients discharged from the intensive care unit in Group 1 was significantly higher than in Group 2 (p=0.048). Amputation was performed on one patient in Group 1 and two patients in Group 2. There was a decrease in peripheral ischemia in 14 (70%) of the patients in Group 1 and 25 (59.5%) of the patients in Group 2.

CONCLUSIONS

Targeted peripheral block techniques for peripheral circulatory disorders for selected ICU patients in conjunction with preventive and medical treatments may decrease peripheral ischemia in extremities and increase ICU discharge.

Index Digit Necrosis as a Complication of Radial Artery Cannulation

Arterial access is therapeutically and diagnostically useful. Its clinical utility is vast, and associated complications are infrequent. However, some unfortunate patients progress to disastrous outcomes. Luckily, ischemic hand complications are rare. Hand ischemia threatens independence and quality of life, thus warranting vigilance. We present a case of index digit necrosis as a complication of arterial cannulation in a 30-year-old patient with end-stage renal disease admitted to an intensive care unit.

Vascular Complications of Transradial Access for Cardiac Catheterization

Transradial access has been increasingly adopted for cardiac catheterization. It is crucial for operators to recognize potential vascular complications associated with radial artery access. Prevention, early detection, and prompt treatment of vascular complications are essential to prevent serious morbidities. This review aims to raise awareness of transradial access vascular complications. Radial artery spasm is treated with intra-arterial verapamil and/or nitroglycerine. Hemorrhagic complications, such as perforation, hematoma, arteriovenous fistula, and pseudoaneurysm, are treated with prolonged compression. Patent hemostasis and adequate anticoagulation are used to prevent radial artery occlusion. Hand ischemia is a rare complication not associated with abnormal results of the Allen or Barbeau test, and can be treated with intra-arterial verapamil, IV heparin, and IV diltiazem. Finally, an attentive monitoring protocol for the timely detection of vascular complications should be implemented in daily practice.

Iatrogenic Radial Artery Injuries: Variable Injury Patterns, Treatment Times, and Outcomes

Background: The radial artery is commonly accessed for arterial blood sampling, invasive blood pressure monitoring, and vascular access for cardiac catheterization. Iatrogenic radial artery injury is a rare complication with potentially devastating outcomes. The purpose of our study was to identify the timing of these injuries and define a treatment algorithm. Methods: A retrospective chart review of all patients with iatrogenic radial artery injuries were identified between the years 2008 and 2018. Patient demographics, mechanism of injury, interventions, and outcomes were recorded. Results: A total of 18 patients were identified with iatrogenic radial artery injury over a 10-year period. Fifty percent of these resulted from arterial line cannulation, and 50% occurred after transradial cardiac catheterization. Thirty-three percent resulted in radial artery pseudoaneurysm (RAP), and 66% had acute radial artery thrombosis (RAT). Eleven of the 18 patients underwent operative intervention. Of the 12 patients with RAT, 4 were treated with systemic anticoagulation for 3 months. All patients with RAP who were surgically treated had resolution of symptoms on follow-up evaluation. Of the patients with RAT, 2 had persistent sensorimotor deficits after treatment, and 1 patient had multiple necrotic fingers requiring amputation. Conclusion: Radial artery injuries are an uncommon but potentially devastating complication of common invasive procedures resulting in thrombosis, pseudoaneurysm, or overt hand ischemia. The treatment options vary depending on presenting symptoms.

Collateral Circulation Testing of the Hand- Is it Relevant Now? A Narrative Review

Testing for collateral circulation of the hand before any radial artery procedure has been a subject of many controversies. Neither the Allen's test (AT) nor the plethysmography based Barbeau test, adequately and reliably test for collateral circulation. With growing interest in radial approaches for vascular procedures, its common use for arterial monitoring and blood gas sampling, there has been a growing interest in the relevance of assessing collateral hand circulation. Multiple studies now refute the utility of collateral testing, yet it continues to be propagated as an essential triaging assessment tool by educators. Allen's, or modified Allen tests (MAT) are operator dependent and often subjected to observational bias. Barbeau test is more objective, however, it fails to show added benefit in assessing pre-procedural patency. Despite studies questioning the validity of collateral circulation assessment, these tests continue to preclude radial approach. There is no standardization for being considered an abnormal test across literature and the significance of an abnormal test translating into a clinical outcome has not been investigated in prior studies. This may be attributed to the robust vascular supply of the hand, connections at the digital circulation level and vessel recruitment in an event of occlusion. We reviewed this topic extensively and make an argument that non-invasive collateral testing should be abandoned as a triage tool for radial artery procedures such as arterial punctures, arterial monitoring, and transradial vascular procedures.

Acute Hand Ischemia and Digital Amputation After Transradial Coronary Intervention in a Patient With CREST Syndrome

The radial artery approach for coronary angiography and intervention is rapidly replacing the femoral artery approach, largely because it reduces bleeding and vascular access site complications. However, complications associated with transradial access warrant attention, notably radial artery occlusion. This report focuses on a case of radial artery occlusion after percutaneous coronary intervention in a 46-year-old woman with CREST (calcinosis, Raynaud phenomenon, esophageal dysfunction, sclerodactyly, and telangiectasia) syndrome, which ultimately led to acute hand ischemia necessitating amputation of her middle and index fingers.

Radial Artery Occlusion in a Patient With Lupus, Antiphospholipid Syndrome, and Raynaud Phenomenon: A Multimodal Approach

Radial artery occlusion (RAO) is a known complication of transradial catheterization for cardiac procedures. The transradial approach has decreased bleeding complications compared with the transfemoral approach, but risks provoking hand ischemia. We present a case of a 29-year-old peripartum woman with a history of lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, and Raynaud phenomenon who developed RAO with hand-threatening ischemia despite therapeutic anticoagulation. Given the patient's medical history, a multimodal approach was applied including thrombectomy, arterial bypass, venous arterialization, and onobotulinum toxin A sympathectomy. The patient's ischemia improved after the procedure, and she regained normal use of the hand.

Assessment of collateral hand circulation by modified Allen's test in normal Indian subjects

BACKGROUND

Allen's test (AT) and Modified Allen's Test (MAT) are used as screening methods for assessment of the hand circulation. Few people lack the dual blood supply of hand and are at risk of hand ischemia after any intervention on radial artery. The Purpose of the study was to assess the collateral circulation of hand using MAT in normal Indian subjects and in elderly population to know the prevalence of positivity of Allen's test.

METHODS

900 participants (1800 hands) were divided in two groups. Group I had participants with age <50 years and group II had participants with age ≥50 years. MAT was performed in all participants and results were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

In group I (n = 450, 900 hands), 313 were males and 137 were females, with mean age of 35.04 years. The relative percentages of a normal, equivocal, borderline and abnormal MAT were 77.8%, 16.6%, 3.7% and 1.6%, respectively. In group II (n = 450, 900 hands), 248 were males and 202 were females, with mean age of 60.4 years. The relative percentages of a normal, equivocal, borderline and abnormal MAT were 69.0%, 18.6%, 6.60% and 5.66%, respectively. A positive/abnormal test was significantly more common (5.66% Vs 1.66%, P < 0.00001) in older group.

CONCLUSION

MAT is simple, time tested and non invasive test to assess collateral circulation of the hand. A negative MAT safely selects patients for radial artery harvest; however, if the test is positive and in older patients then a second objective test may be needed.

[Radial artery occlusion ofter coronarography: is it really a problem?]

The use of transradial access for cardiac procedures has increased worldwide over the past two decades. Despite the many advantages this technique offers, there remains some concern that radial artery occlusion, a potential complication of radial cannulation, might lead to significant ischemic sequelae in the hand. This paper reviews the major causes, its possible consequences and the strategies for its prevention and treatment. It appears however from multiple studies that there is little or no correlation between radial occlusion and symptomatic hand ischemia.

Complications of Transradial Catheterization and Cannulation

Transradial catheterization and cannulation are typically well-tolerated procedures, but they are associated with various vascular, infectious, and orthopedic complications. Potential complications include radial artery occlusion, hematoma formation, radial artery laceration, pseudoaneurysm, abscess formation, and compartment syndrome. Hand surgeons are commonly consulted to treat such complications. We review recent evidence available to guide decisions about nonsurgical and surgical interventions to treat and prevent the complications associated with transradial access procedures.

Causes and outcomes of finger ischemia in hospitalized patients in the intensive care unit

OBJECTIVE

Vascular surgeons may be consulted to evaluate hospitalized patients with finger ischemia. We sought to characterize causes and outcomes of finger ischemia in intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

METHODS

All ICU patients who underwent evaluation for finger ischemia from 2008 to 2015 were reviewed. All were evaluated with finger photoplethysmography. The patients' demographics, comorbidities, ICU care (ventilator status, arterial lines, use of vasoactive medications), finger amputations, and survival were also recorded. ICU patients were compared with concurrently evaluated non-ICU inpatients with finger ischemia.

RESULTS

There were 98 ICU patients (55 male, 43 female) identified. The mean age was 57.1 ± 16.8 years. Of these patients, 42 (43%) were in the surgical ICU and 56 (57%) in the medical ICU. Seventy (72%) had abnormal findings on finger photoplethysmography, 40 (69%) unilateral and 30 (31%) bilateral. Thirty-six (37%) had ischemia associated with an arterial line. Twelve (13%) had concomitant toe ischemia. Eighty (82%) were receiving vasoactive medications at the time of diagnosis, with the most frequent being phenylephrine (55%), norepinephrine (47%), ephedrine (31%), epinephrine (26%), and vasopressin (24%). Treatment was with anticoagulation in 88 (90%; therapeutic, 48%; prophylactic, 42%) and antiplatelet agents in 59 (60%; aspirin, 51%; clopidogrel, 15%). Other frequently associated conditions included mechanical ventilation at time of diagnosis (37%), diabetes (34%), peripheral arterial disease (32%), dialysis dependence (31%), cancer (24%), and sepsis (20%). Only five patients (5%) ultimately required finger amputation. The 30-day, 1-year, and 3-year survival was 84%, 69%, and 59%. By Cox proportional hazards modeling, cancer (hazard ratio, 2.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-5.6; P = .035) was an independent predictor of mortality. There were 50 concurrent non-ICU patients with finger ischemia. Non-ICU patients were more likely to have connective tissue disorders (26% vs 13%; P = .05) and hyperlipidemia (42% vs 24%; P = .03) and to undergo finger amputations (16% vs 5%; P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

Finger ischemia in the ICU is frequently associated with the presence of arterial lines and the use of vasopressor medications, of which phenylephrine and norepinephrine are most frequent. Anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy is appropriate treatment. Whereas progression to amputation is rare, patients with finger ischemia in the ICU have a high rate of mortality, particularly in the presence of cancer. Non-ICU patients hospitalized with finger ischemia more frequently require finger amputations, probably because of more frequent connective tissue disorders.

The ACRA Anatomy Study (Assessment of Disability After Coronary Procedures Using Radial Access): A Comprehensive Anatomic and Functional Assessment of the Vasculature of the Hand and Relation to Outcome After Transradial Catheterization

BACKGROUND

The palmar arches serve as the most important conduits for digital blood supply, and incompleteness may lead to digital ischemia when the radial artery becomes obstructed after cardiac catheterization. The rate of palmar arch incompleteness and the clinical consequences after transradial access are currently unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The vascular anatomy of the hand was documented by angiography in 234 patients undergoing transradial cardiac catheterization. In all patients, a preprocedural modified Allen test and Barbeau test were performed. Upper-extremity function was assessed at baseline and 2-year follow-up by the QuickDASH. Incompleteness of the superficial palmar arch (SPA) was present in 46%, the deep palmar arch was complete in all patients. Modified Allen test and Barbeau test results were associated with incompleteness of the SPA (P=0.001 and P=0.001). The modified Allen test had a 33% sensitivity and 86% specificity for SPA incompleteness with a cutoff value of >10 seconds and a 59% sensitivity and 60% specificity with a cutoff value of >5 seconds. The Barbeau test had a 7% sensitivity and 98% specificity for type D and a 21% sensitivity and 93% specificity for types C and D combined. Upper-extremity dysfunction was not associated with SPA incompleteness (P=0.77).

CONCLUSIONS

Although incompleteness of the SPA is common, digital blood supply is always preserved by a complete deep palmar arch. Preprocedural patency tests have thus no added benefit to prevent ischemic complications of the hand. Finally, incompleteness of the SPA is not associated with a loss of upper-extremity function after transradial catheterization.

Radial neuropathy following arterial line removal: A rare complication from a routine ICU procedure

Radial artery thrombosis is a rare complication of cannulation. There are no reported cases of acute thrombosis and severe acute neuropathy in the setting of cannula discontinuation. We report a case of acute radial nerve mono-neuropathy following thrombosis after radial arterial line removal. The thrombus was immediately evident on exam and diagnostic imaging after cannula discontinuation. The patient was consented and promptly taken to OR for immediate repair. Mild radial neuropathy persisted despite immediate repair. Immediate recognition of signs and symptoms is essential for diagnosis and management, especially in the high-risk population.

Critical Hand Ischemia After Radial Access for Coronary Angiography - Case Report

Background

Radial artery is now the most frequent access for coronary angiography and intervention. Despite the common opinion that it is safer than femoral access, it has the potential for serious complications. One of them is upper limb ischemia caused by radial artery thrombosis.

Case Report

We are presenting a case of critical hand ischemia after coronary angiography performed through radial access despite existing risk factors, which may be considered as relative contraindications.

Conclusions

In the presented case, decision was made to use radial access despite several risk factors of upper limb ischemia – diabetes, end-stage renal failure, hyperparathyroidism, or even symptoms of left upper limb ischemia. Furthermore, for diagnostic coronary angiography 5F instead of 4F introducer was used.

Low rate of access site complications after transradial coronary catheterization: A prospective ultrasound study

Background

Transradial artery (TRA) left heart catheterization is an increasingly used technique for both diagnostic and interventional coronary procedures. This study evaluates the incidence of access site complications in the current interventional era.

Methods and results

A total of 507 procedures were performed under standardized conditions. Each procedure was performed using high levels of anticoagulation, hydrophilic sheaths, and short post-procedural compression times. Vascular complications were assessed one day after TRA catheterization using Duplex sonography and classified according to the necessity of additional medical intervention. A simple questionnaire helped identifying upper extremity neurologic or motor complications. Vascular complications were detected in 12 patients (2.36%): radial artery occlusion was detected in 9 patients (1.77%), 1 patient developed an AV-fistula (0.19%), and 2 patients had pseudoaneurysms (0.38%). None of the patients required specialized medical or surgical intervention. Under our procedural conditions, small radial artery diameter was the only significant predictor for the development of post-procedural vascular complications (2.11 ± 0.42 mm vs 2.52 ± 0.39 mm, p = 0.001). None of the previously reported risk factors, namely, advanced renal failure, diabetes, acuteness/complexity of procedure, or sheath and catheter size significantly influenced the rate of vascular complications. No major hematoma or local neurologic or motor complications were identified.

Conclusions

Using current techniques and materials, we report a very low rate of local complications associated with TRA catheterization.

Effectiveness of Handmade "Jacky-Like Catheter" As a Single Multipurpose Catheter in Transradial Coronary Angiography: A Randomized Comparison With Conventional Two-Catheter Strategy

OBJECTIVE

To investigate safety and efficacy of specialized hand-modified "Jacky-Like" catheter (JLC) as a single dual-purpose catheter in transradial coronary angiography.

METHODS

Patients over 18 years undergoing diagnostic CAG through right radial artery (RRA) were prospectively enrolled. Procedures were performed with a single JLC modified from a left Judkins (JL) 3.5 catheter or by using 2-catheter approach (2C). Procedures with coronary artery bypass grafts or ventricular angiographies were excluded from the study. Three hundred and eighty-seven transradial procedures were performed successfully. One hundred and ninety-four procedures were performed with 2C and 193 procedures with a JLC. Inability to use intended catheters, total fluoroscopic time in minutes, the consumption of contrast medium in milliliter, development of radial artery spasm (RAS), and radial artery occlusion (RAO) were evaluated.

RESULTS

In the 2C group, angiography was successfully performed on the RCA of 191 patients (98.9%) and on LCA in 192 patients (99.4%). In the JLC group, angiography was successfully performed on the RCA and LCA of 193 (99.4%) and 174 (89.6%) patients, respectively. Utilization of supplemental catheters was significantly greater in the JLC group (21; 10.8%) versus the 2C group (3; 1.5% P = 0.001). Mean fluoroscopy time was shorter in the JLC group (2.0 ± 2.3 min vs. 2.3 ± 1.5 min; P = 0.043). Mean procedure time was also decreased with JLC but did not reach statistical significance (5.7 ± 3.1 min vs. 6.2 ± 2.5 min; P = 0.081). When additional time for reshaping the JLC was not taken into account, mean procedure time was significantly decreased in the JLC group (5.6 ± 2.9 min vs. 6.2 ± 2.4 min; P = 0.031). There was a trend toward lower incidence of consumption of contrast medium in the 2C group (49 ± 13 mL vs. 52 ± 18 mL; P = 0.061). RAS was observed more frequently in the 2C group (11.3% vs. 21.7%, P = 0.005). There was a trend toward high incidence of RAO in the 2C group (4.1 vs. 8.3% P = 0.064).

CONCLUSION

In transradial procedures from RRA, a JLC catheter can be very effective when dedicated dual-purpose catheter is not available.

Hand ischaemia after radial artery cannulation

Arterial cannulation for haemodynamic monitoring has become a routine procedure in the clinical management of critically ill adults. Thrombosis is the most common complication of this procedure. We report the case of a patient with multiple traumatic injuries in which radial artery cannulation was associated with compartment syndrome of the forearm and hand.

Effectiveness of a compressive device in controlling hemorrhage following radial artery catheterization

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a compressive device in controlling hemorrhage following radial artery catheterization.

Methods

A prospective randomized trial was conducted on subjects receiving the standard taping method (group S) compared to a compressive device method (group C) after removal of the cannula in radial artery catheterization. Primary outcomes were the success rate of hemostasis and complication rate after cannula removal. Secondary outcomes were the cost of compression and the level of convenience.

Results

A total of 250 subjects were enrolled in this study. Hemostasis after removal was successful in 122 of 125 (97.6%) subjects in group S and 116 of 125 (92.8%) subjects in group C (P=0.18). Complication rates in group S and group C were 55.2% (69/125) and 48% (60/125), respectively (P=0.35). The cost of compression for group C (approximately 6,740 Korean won) was approximately two times cheaper than for group S (approximately 14,140 Korean won). The level of convenience was significantly higher in group C than in group S (7.4±2.1 vs. 3.7±1.9, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that hemostasis using a compressive device may be a suitable alternative method to the standard taping method in controlling hemorrhage following radial artery cannulation.

Hand ischemia after transradial coronary angiography: resulting in right ring finger amputation

Critical hand ischemia is an extremely rare and serious complication of transradial coronary angiography. It is almost always associated with radial artery occlusion. Early recognition and involvement of vascular surgery is imperative for optimal management. Up to our knowledge, there have been only 5 cases reported in the medical literature. Herein, we describe a case of an 81-year-old male who had undergone transradial coronary intervention complicated by critical hand ischemia requiring amputation of the right 4th finger.

Can the Anesthesiologist Use the Radial Artery for Monitoring After Transradial Artery Catheterization?

The use of transradial coronary angiography and intervention is growing because of its advantages over the femoral approach. However, the small size of the radial artery can contribute to complications. We present a case of an in situ access complication of transradial coronary artery catheterization. It is important for the anesthesiologist to know about the short-term and long-term consequences of this intervention, which could lead to narrowing of the artery even beyond the site of puncture. Understanding these changes could help anesthesiologists make better decisions about using the radial artery for monitoring after transradial coronary artery catheterization procedures.

Interpretation of upper extremity arteriography: vascular anatomy and pathology [corrected]

Understanding the utility and interpretation of upper extremity angiography is critical for the hand surgeon treating vaso-occlusive diseases of the hand. Although invasive and requiring the use of contrast dye, it remains the gold standard for imaging of the vascular system of the upper extremity. Angiography may detect numerous variants of the upper limb arterial system which may contribute to surgical pathology. Extensive vascular collateralization helps to maintain perfusion to the hand and facilitates reconstruction of the upper extremity. It is paramount to remember that angiography is a dynamic study and should represent a "flexible roadmap" for surgical reconstruction.

Complications related to radial artery occlusion, radial artery harvest, and arterial lines

Recent publications have suggested that there may be an important role for the radial artery regarding long-term perfusion of the hand. The increasing popularity of the radial artery as an access site for cardiac catheterization has also resulted in the recognition of acute and chronic radial artery occlusion, and cardiologists have placed renewed emphasis on preserving the patency of this artery for future interventional procedures. This article reviews the present literature on radial artery harvest and occlusion. Also discussed are the complications associated with radial artery occlusion and treatment options to prevent such complications.

Finger necrosis after accidental radial artery puncture

Radial artery puncture, an invasive procedure, is frequently used for critical patients. Although considered safe, severe complications such as finger necrosis can occur. Herein, we review the clinical course of finger necrosis after accidental radial artery puncture. A 63-year-old woman visited the emergency department (ED) with left second and third finger pain after undergoing intravenous (IV) access in her wrist for procedural sedation. During the IV access, she experienced wrist pain, which increased during the 12 hours prior to her ED presentation. Emergency angiography revealed a pseudoaneurysm in her left radial artery and absence of blood flow to the proper palmar digital artery. Subsequent angiointervention and urokinase thrombolysis failed. The second finger was eventually amputated owing to gangrene. Radial artery puncture can occur accidentally during IV wrist access, resulting in severe morbidity. Providers should carefully examine the puncture site and collateral flow, followed by multiple examinations to ensure distal circulation.

Variation of arterial and central venous catheter use in United States intensive care units

BACKGROUND

Arterial catheters (ACs) and central venous catheters (CVCs) are common in intensive care units (ICUs). Few data describe which patients receive these devices and whether variability in practice exists.

METHODS

The authors conducted an observational cohort study on adult patients admitted to ICU during 2001-2008 by using Project IMPACT to determine whether AC and CVC use is consistent across U.S. ICUs. The authors examined trends over time and patients more (mechanically ventilated or on vasopressors) or less (predicted risk of hospital mortality ≤2%) likely to receive either catheter.

RESULTS

Our cohort included 334,123 patients across 122 hospitals and 168 ICUs. Unadjusted AC usage rates remained constant (36.9% [2001] vs. 36.4% [2008]; P = 0.212), whereas CVC use increased (from 33.4% [2001] to 43.8% [2008]; P < 0.001 comparing 2001 and 2008); adjusted AC usage rates were constant from 2004 (35.2%) to 2008 (36.4%; P = 0.43 for trend). Surgical ICUs used both catheters most often (unadjusted rates, ACs: 56.0% of patients vs. 22.4% in medical and 32.6% in combined units, P < 0.001; CVCs: 46.9% vs. 32.5% and 36.4%, P < 0.001). There was a wide variability in AC use across ICUs in patients receiving mechanical ventilation (median [interquartile range], 49.2% [29.9-72.3%]; adjusted median odds ratio [AMOR], 2.56), vasopressors (51.7% [30.8-76.2%]; AMOR, 2.64), and with predicted mortality of 2% or less (31.7% [19.5-49.3%]; AMOR, 1.94). There was less variability in CVC use (mechanical ventilation: 63.4% [54.9-72.9%], AMOR, 1.69; vasopressors: 71.4% (59.5-85.7%), AMOR, 1.93; predicted mortality of 2% or less: 18.7% (11.9-27.3%), AMOR, 1.90).

CONCLUSIONS

Both ACs and CVCs are common in ICU patients. There is more variation in use of ACs than CVCs.

Arterial catheter setup for glucose control in critically ill patients: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Use of an arterial catheter to obtain hourly blood samples for intensive insulin therapy monitoring avoids causing patients the discomfort of repeated fingersticks. Returning the clearing volume may decrease procedure-related blood loss by 50% and minimize the risk of anemia.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the feasibility of 2 arterial catheter clearing-volume return setups for hourly blood extractions and to evaluate the related complications and the accuracy of arterial samples in determining glycemia.

METHODS

In an open clinical trial, 90 critical patients undergoing intensive insulin therapy who had a radial arterial catheter were randomized to an intervention group-nonwaste needleless setup or nonwaste syringe setup and compared with the standard setup (control group). Mechanical and infectious complications related to the arterial catheter were evaluated. Blood glucose measurements at point-of-care glucometer (arterial catheter or fingerstick sample) were compared with laboratory results (venous blood).

RESULTS

No patient had catheter-related infection in the intervention group (an estimated 12776 manipulations); the control group had 2 infection episodes in 5230 catheter-days (an estimated 13 075 manipulations). The incidence of bacterial colonization was not significantly higher in the needleless group than in the syringe group (22.2% vs 12.2%; relative risk, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.16-1.71), with 1778 (SD, 114) and 1918 (SD, 82) catheter manipulations, respectively. Arterial catheter complications were negligible in all patients. Glycemia was detected from arterial catheter samples as effectively as with laboratory results (venous samples) except when hematocrit was less than 25%.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of blood obtained via an arterial catheter is safe and effective for glucose monitoring in patients undergoing intensive insulin therapy, with no increase in complications of catheterization.

Radial artery occlusion after percutaneous coronary interventions - an underestimated issue

The femoral approach is the most common arterial access for percutaneous coronary artery interventions. Despite the convenience and simplicity of this approach, it is burdened with a high risk of arterial puncture bleeding, which worsens the prognosis of the patient. An alternative approach through the radial artery has been gaining more and more popularity in recent years. This is due to a significant reduction of local bleeding complications as compared with the femoral artery approach. The use of the radial approach in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction improves outcome, reducing the risk of death, subsequent myocardial infarction and stroke, and is the preferred approach according to the latest ESC guidelines. In addition to improving safety, it is beneficial for improving patient comfort, with a shorter recovery after the procedure, shorter hospitalization and lower medical costs. One of the major complications of procedures performed through the radial approach is radial artery occlusion (RAO). Although it usually has an asymptomatic course, RAO eliminates the ability to use the radial artery as an access in the future. A number of factors that contribute to the occurrence of RAO have been identified, such as the size of the sheath and the catheter, diameter ratio of the sheath to the diameter of the radial artery, insufficient anticoagulation and, above all, the way of obtaining hemostasis at the puncture site: the duration of artery compression after sheath removal and the preservation of artery patency during compression (so-called patent hemostasis). This paper presents the current state of the art about the factors that contribute to the occurrence of RAO and methods for preventing this complication.

Open surgical management of complications from indwelling radial artery catheters

BACKGROUND

Cannulation of the radial artery is frequently performed for invasive hemodynamic monitoring. Complications arising from indwelling catheters have been described in small case series; however, their surgical management is not well described. Understanding the presentation and management of such complications is imperative to offer optimal treatment, particularly because the radial artery is increasingly accessed for percutaneous coronary interventions.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review to identify patients who underwent surgical intervention for complications arising from indwelling radial artery catheters from 1997 to 2011.

RESULTS

We identified 30 patients who developed complications requiring surgical intervention. These complications were categorized into ischemic and nonischemic, with 15 patients identified in each cohort. All patients presenting with clinical hand or digital ischemia underwent thrombectomy and revascularization. Complications in the nonischemic group included three patients with deep abscesses with concomitant arterial thrombosis, two with deep abscesses alone, and 10 with pseudoaneurysms. Treatment strategy in this group varied with the presenting pathology. Among the entire case series, three patients required reintervention after the initial surgery, all in individuals initially presenting with ischemia who developed recurrent thrombosis of the radial artery. There were no digital or hand amputations in this series. However, the overall in-hospital mortality in these patients was 37%, reflecting the severity of illness in this patient cohort. Three patients who were positive for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia antibody had 100% mortality compared with those who were negative (P = .04, Fisher exact test). In-hospital mortality was higher in patients presenting with initial ischemia than in those with nonischemic complications (53% vs 20%; P = .06). Among 10 patients who presented with pseudoaneurysms, five (50%) were septic at presentation with positive blood cultures, and six (60%) had positive operating room cultures. Staphylococcus aureus was identified as the causative organism in all of these patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Complications of radial artery cannulation requiring surgical intervention can represent infectious and ischemic sequelae and have the potential to result in major morbidity, including digital or hand amputation and sepsis, or death. Although surgical treatment is successful and often required in these patients to treat severe hand ischemia, hemorrhage, or vascular infection, these complications tend to occur in critically ill hospitalized patients with an extremely high mortality. This must be taken into consideration when planning surgical intervention in this patient cohort. Finally, radial arterial cannulation sites should not be overlooked when searching for occult septic sources in critically ill patients.

Temporary arterial stenting in a full-house spaghetti wrist injury in a remote rural setting: benefit for hand perfusion or risk of increased morbidity?

We report a case of temporary arterial plastic tube stenting of the ulnar and radial artery in a complete spaghetti wrist injury in a remote rural setting. Exploration in a specialist centre 18 h postinjury revealed that the tubes were clotted off with adjacent thrombi but hand perfusion was maintained. Intimal damage required vein grafting of both arteries 24 h postinjury. Hand perfusion was not compromised at follow-up. This case highlights that arterial hand perfusion can be maintained without the ulnar and radial artery. Arterial manipulation and tube insertion outside a specialist centre bears the risk of increased morbidity and potential microembolism and must therefore not be attempted.

[Actually a routine matter: ischemia after catheterization of the radial artery]

A 76-year-old patient developed necrosis of the index finger after placement of a radial artery catheter. This article discusses the risks associated with invasive blood pressure monitoring and treatment options in cases of critical ischemia. The authors conclude that there is no consensus concerning optimal treatment and that a discussion on options for preoperative risk assessment and quickest possible recognition of such complications is worthwhile. Despite the risk of ischemia invasive blood pressure monitoring is an indispensable procedure.