Abstract
Introduction
Distal transradial artery access (DTRA) has recently gained attention due to potential benefits in terms of local complications and risk of superficial palmar arch ischemia in case of radial artery occlusion.
Purpose
In this meta-analysis, we aimed to evaluate the utility of DTRA compared to conventional transradial artery access (CTRA) for coronary angiography and intervention.
Method
We performed a comprehensive literature search using multiple databases from inception through February 2021 for all the studies that evaluated the efficacy and safety of DTRA for coronary angiography and intervention. The primary outcome of interest was access success rate. The secondary outcomes were periprocedural local complications (site hematoma, radial artery occlusion or spasm) and procedural characteristics (cannulation, fluoroscopy, and radial artery compression times). All meta-analyses were conducted using a random-effect model.
Results
A total of 8 studies including 1630 patients (805 underwent DTRA vs. 825 with CTRA), were included in the final analysis. Three of the included studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and the remainder were observational studies. The access success rate was similar in the two groups (odds ratio (OR): 0.61; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.18–2.09; P=0.43; I2=72%). Similarly, no difference was observed in the overall periprocedural local complications rate (OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.38–1.04, P=0.07, I2=25%). On subgroup analysis, the rate of radial artery occlusion was significantly lower in DRTA group (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.13–0.82, P=0.02, I2=0%). Regarding the procedural characteristics, the two approaches were different only in the cannulation time favoring the CTRA group (mean difference in minutes [MD] 0.96, 95% CI 0.16–1.76; P=0.02).
Conclusions
The DTRA represents an alternative site for radial artery access for coronary angiography and interventions, with a high success rate accompanied by a low risk of complications. Although the cannulation time was longer for the DTRA, this can potentially improve with training, practice, and utilization of ultrasound-guided punctures. The major advantage provided by the DTRA is the trend toward a lower risk of radial artery occlusion, which is frequently observed with the conventional approach. Further adequately powered RCTs are needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of this approach.
FUNDunding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None. Central illustration