Comparison of Transradial Versus Transfemoral Approach for Coronary Angiography and Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Historically, transfemoral approach (TFA) was the main access site for percutaneous coronary procedure. Over the past decade, transradial approach (TRA) has been gaining popularity over (TFA). With frequent use of TRA, we have recognized the advantage of TRA over TFA. Multiple trials have been conducted to investigate TRAs' benefits and risk. We have performed a literature search on TRA vs TFA, on the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches. A total of 140 citations were identified but only 38 filled our eligibility criteria. In this review, we found that TRA is associated with reduction of access site complication, time to ambulation and cardiac related death. However, lack of training and hesitancy of older interventionalist to switch approach is an impediment to the increased use of TRA. While the transfemoral approach has a higher access site complication rate, it is still integral as an access option.