Transradial angioplasty: A major shift in Interventional Cardiology

Coronary Artery Disease will take epidemic proportion by 2015 and will exceed infectious diseases as the most common cause of death in our country, predict experts.There have been numerous advances in coronary 1 angiography since Hales performed the first angiogram in 1711 on a horse .In humans, the femoral artery has traditionally been the preferred site of arterial access for coronary procedures.Though this route provides an easier vascular access, it is associated with a small but potentially serious incidence of vascular complications at the puncture site.A useful alternative approach is the transradial access.Radial approach to angioplasty has become increasingly popular since its initial use in 1989 due to its relative safety, very low rate of vascular complications, cost effectiveness, early mobilization and patient comfort than other 2 approaches .The objective of this article is to review the currently available information regarding the efficacy, safety, benefits and limitations of radial angioplasty.Research has provided evidence that the radial approach is safe in most populations and has many added benefits over femoral approach.More research needs to be conducted in order to best define the patients in whom this approach is most effective.