Radial angiography is coronary angiography performed through the wrist (radial artery). It has many advantages over traditional groin (femoral) access.
What is Radial Angiography?#
Radial angiography is the use of the radial artery on the inner side of the wrist for imaging heart vessels. It is the preferred access route in modern cardiology.
Advantages of Radial Access:
- Lower bleeding risk
- Early mobilization
- Shorter hospital stay
- Better patient comfort
Radial vs Femoral Access#
| Feature | Radial | Femoral |
|---|---|---|
| Bleeding risk | Low | High |
| Mobilization | Immediate | 4-6 hours |
| Patient comfort | High | Low |
| Complications | Less | More |
| Discharge | Same day | Usually next day |
Radial Angiography Indications#
Diagnostic Angiography#
- Suspected coronary artery disease
- Chest pain evaluation
- Acute coronary syndrome
- Pre-valve surgery
Interventional Procedures#
- Coronary angioplasty
- Stent implantation
- CTO interventions
- Complex PCI
Pre-Radial Angiography Preparation#
Allen Test#
Hand circulation is evaluated before using radial artery:
- Ulnar artery adequacy is checked
- Femoral access is preferred if test is negative
Patient Preparation#
- 6-8 hours fasting
- Wrist area shaving
- Medication adjustment
- Hydration
How is Radial Angiography Performed?#
Procedure Steps#
- Local anesthesia: To wrist area
- Artery puncture: Radial artery
- Sheath placement: 5-6 French
- Spasmolytic: To prevent vessel spasm
- Catheter advancement: Under fluoroscopy
- Imaging: Coronary arteries
- Hemostasis: TR Band or manual compression
Procedure Duration#
Diagnostic angiography: 15-30 minutes
Post-Radial Angiography Care#
Hemostasis#
- TR Band (transparent compression band)
- 2-4 hours compression
- Gradual loosening
Mobilization#
- Can sit immediately
- Can walk after 2-4 hours
- Same-day discharge possible
Precautions#
- Keep wrist elevated
- No heavy lifting (24 hours)
- Bleeding control
Radial Angiography Complications#
Complications are rare:
- Radial artery spasm
- Radial artery occlusion
- Hematoma
- Nerve damage (very rare)
Frequently Asked Questions#
Is radial angiography painful?
When can I go home after radial angiography?
Can I use my wrist after radial angiography?
Is radial access possible in every patient?
Is radial angiography safer than femoral angiography?
Appointment and Contact#
If you would like to schedule an appointment for radial angiography:
📍 Avrasya Hospital - Beştelsiz Mah. 101. Sokak No:107, Zeytinburnu, Istanbul
📞 Phone: +90 212 665 50 50 (Ext: 4012)
This content has been prepared by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Habib Çil for general informational purposes. Please consult a cardiology specialist for definitive diagnosis and treatment.
Related Coronary Interventions#
Other coronary treatments related to radial angiography:
- Cardiac Angiography - Coronary artery imaging
- Coronary Angioplasty - Balloon and stent vessel opening
- Angiography - General angiography procedures
- Cardiac Stent - Drug-eluting stent implantation
- PCI - Percutaneous coronary intervention