Complications Following Transradial Cerebral Angiography : An Ultrasound Follow-Up Study

Efficacy and safety of a new torque-controlled angiographic catheter in cerebral angiography: A multicenter, randomized, open-label trial

Objective

We aimed to examine the effectiveness and safety of a novel torque-controlled catheter for cerebral angiography.

Methods

A total of 417 patients who underwent routine transfemoral cerebral angiography were enrolled in a randomized controlled study to compare the new torque-controlled and control group catheters. Device success was assessed on parameters such as the assessment of the common carotid artery, device rotation force, and success rate with the crossover group after the failed procedure. Four neurointerventionalists investigated the degree of satisfaction of using the new device. Superiority and non-inferiority tests of satisfaction scores were estimated for the new torque-controlled and the control group catheters.

Results

The new torque-controlled catheter showed improved performance in terms of technical device success (92.79 vs. 98.09 %, P = 0.010), crossover after technical device failure (0 vs. 86.67 %, P = 0.004), and common carotid artery access (92.79 vs. 98.56 %, P = 0.004). The flexibility and rotational force of the new torque-controlled catheter were higher than those of the control group catheters (75.48 vs. 100 %, P < 0.001). No marked adverse cerebrovascular accidents or vessel damage occurred in either group during the procedure. The differences between the two groups in terms of the device rotational force and operator satisfaction were 1.836 (1.765-1.907) and 2.092 (2.000-2.183), respectively. The new torque-controlled catheter showed superior device rotational force satisfaction, operator satisfaction, and manufacturer satisfaction, with statistical significance.

Conclusion

The new torque-controlled catheter was effective, safe, and convenient compared to the control group catheters for diagnostic cerebrovascular angiography.

Mediastinal hematoma after trans-radial cerebral angiography: a case report

BACKGROUND

Trans-radial (TRA) access has become increasingly prevalent in neurointervention. Nonetheless, mediastinal hematoma after TRA is an infrequent yet grave complication associated with a notably elevated mortality rate. While our review found no reported mediastinal hematoma cases managed conservatively within neuro-interventional literature, similar complications are documented in cardiac and vascular interventional radiology, indicating its potential occurrence across disciplines.

CASE PRESENTATION

Carotid computed tomography angiography (CTA) showed calcified plaques with stenosis (Left: Severe, Right: Moderate) in the bilateral internal carotid arteries (ICAs) of an 81-year-old male presented with paroxysmal weakness in the right upper limb. Dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel was administered. On day 7, DSA of the bilateral ICAs was performed via TRA. Post-DSA, the patient experienced transient loss of consciousness, chest tightness, and other symptoms without ECG or MRI abnormalities. Hemoglobin level decreased from 110 g/L to 92 g/L. Iodinated contrast-induced laryngeal edema was suspected, and the patient was treated with intravenous methylprednisolone. Neck CT indicated a possible mediastinal hemorrhage, which chest CTA confirmed. The patient's treatment plan involved discontinuing antiplatelet medication as a precautionary measure against the potential occurrence of an ischemic stroke instead of the utilization of a covered stent graft and surgical intervention. Serial CTs revealed hematoma absorption. Discharge CT showed a reduced hematoma volume of 35 × 45 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

This case underscores the need for timely identification and precise manipulation of guidewires and guide-catheters through trans-radial access. The critical components of successful neuro-interventional techniques include timely examination, rapid identification, proper therapy, and diligent monitoring.

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.

Subclavian artery stenting via bilateral radial artery access: Four case reports

BACKGROUND

Subclavian artery stenosis refers to the stenosis in the lumen caused by the presence of plaque or thrombus in the subclavian artery. It is a common problem in endovascular interventions. In fact, conventional subclavian artery stenting via the femoral artery approach is effective and safe. Nevertheless, because femoral artery puncture is not easy to stop bleeding, it requires longer femoral artery compression or more expensive hemostatic materials, such as staplers. Patients need to be catheterized and bedridden for a longer time, which may lead to many complications, such as pseudoaneurysm.

CASE SUMMARY

Herein, we reported a new interventional therapy of subclavian artery. From March 1, 2020 to August 31, 2021, we operated on four patients with subclavian artery stenting via bilateral radial artery access.

CONCLUSION

After reviewing four cases of successful placement of clavicular artery stents via bilateral radial arteries, we concluded that bilateral radial artery approach is feasible. Clavicular artery stenting is safe, effective, and timesaving. It is an excellent alternative to the traditional femoral artery procedure, with few complications and high comfort degree.

Radial artery diameter: a comprehensive systematic review of anatomy

AIMS

The objective of this systematic review is to determine with the highest accuracy the average radial artery (RA) diameter overall and in certain subgroups. The aim of this study is to provide assistance in the development of fitting transradial devices, an increasingly popular intervention.

METHODS

Several databases were used to extract appropriate studies highlighting RA diameter. Databases used in the generation of this study were Ovid EBM Reviews, Ovid Embase, Ovid Medline, Scopus and Web of Science Core Collection. RA diameter was determined overall, in males versus females, adults only, adults+children, in the presence of comorbidities, and finally RA diameter in the context of various vasodilators.

RESULTS

A total of 71 studies were included. The average RA diameter overall was determined to be 2.62±0.15 mm in children+adults and 2.70±0.15 mm in adults only. In comparison to an RA diameter of 2.68±0.24 mm in adult males, the diameter was found to be 2.27±0.27 mm in adult females (p=0.028). As for comorbidities, the mean RA diameter in adult patients with hypertension and congestive heart failure was 2.72±0.37 mm and 2.80±0.25 mm, respectively. Finally, the mean RA diameter with nitrate and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor use was 2.97±0.53 mm and 2.82±0.29 mm respectively. For comparison, the average outer diameter of a 5 French introducer sheath is 2.29 mm and a 6 French introducer sheath is 2.62 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings presented in this study will help determine the most appropriate transradial device to use in several different populations in the context of vasodilator usage or the absence thereof.

Transradial Cerebral Angiography: Is it Feasible and Safe for Children?

PURPOSE

To investigate the feasibility and safety of transradial cerebral angiography (TRCA) in comparison to transfemoral cerebral angiography (TFCA) in the pediatric population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed pediatric patients who underwent TRCA between January 2019 and July 2020. Patients with TFCA experience were examined. Pre- and post-procedural Doppler ultrasonography was performed to evaluate TRCA complications. To evaluate differences in radiation exposure between TRCA and TFCA, we investigated the radiation dose, dose area product (DAP), fluoroscopy time, and examination time.

RESULTS

Thirty-five patients (mean age, 13.8 years; 22 male) underwent TRCA, with 18 (mean age, 13.0 years; 10 male) experiencing TFCA. TRCA was successful in all cases without technical failure. Radiation exposure including radiation dose and DAP were significantly higher in the TRCA group (474.1 mGy and 8299.6 μGy m²) compared with the TFCA group (347.8 mGy and 6342.0 μGy m²). Fluoroscopy time and total examination time were significantly longer (145.1% and 32.6%) in TRCA (15.2 and 38.6 min) group compared with the TFCA group (6.2 and 29.1 min). Among the 26 patients who underwent post-procedural Doppler ultrasonography, five (19.2%) had complications after TRCA. Two (7.7%) patients showed radial artery stenosis, two (7.7%) had hematoma at the puncture site, and one (3.8%) showed thrombotic occlusion.

CONCLUSION

Although TRCA is a technically feasible and safe method in pediatric patients, high radiation exposure to TFCA must be considered. Therefore, it should be considered as an alternative method in those with unfavorable clinical situations for performing TFCA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 4, Case Series.

Application of pigtail catheter tailing combined with long-wire swapping technique in cerebral angiography via the right radial artery

The safety and feasibility of transradial approach for cerebral angiography has been confirmed previously. However, this approach has been limited used due to the difficulty during the procedure. This study aimed to introduce a pigtail catheter tailing and long-wire swapping technique to improve the success rate without increasing complications.From August 2015 to December 2018, 560 patients who underwent cerebral angiography via transradial approach were recruited. The data including the type of aortic arch, type of Simmon catheter were collected.The loop was successfully constructed in 553 patients using Simmon-2 or Simmon-1 catheter. Of these patients, 72 patients successfully underwent cerebral and renal angiography, while 481 patients underwent cerebral angiography. The time for angiography was 52.87 ± 11.23 minutes and 47.8 ± 11.8 minutes, respectively. There were 369 (66.7%), 135 (24.4%), and 49 (8.9%) patients with type I, type II, and type III aortic arches, respectively, and their success rates of looping using Simmon-2 catheter were 97.8%, 97.0%, and 89.8%, respectively. The success rates of angiography in the right internal carotid artery, right vertebral artery, left internal carotid artery, and left vertebral artery were 100%, 100%, 98.9%, and 98.9%, respectively. No serious complications were observed in all patients.The pigtail catheter tailing and long guidewire swapping is considered as a safe procedure with high success rate for loop construction using a Simmon-2 catheter through the right radial artery, subsequently improving the success rate as well as the efficiency of angiography.