Prediction of radial artery diameter in candidates for transradial coronary angiography: is occupation a factor?

OBJECTIVE: Transradial approach (TRA) for coronary angiography is a popular alternative approach to transfemoral coronary angiography due to the infrequent occurrence of access site complications such as bleeding, hematoma and pseudoaneursym formation. However, not all patients are suitable for TRA. This study aimed to determine the predictors of radial artery diameter in patients who are candidates for TRA. METHODS: The study included 222 consecutive patients who underwent TRA due to suspected stable coronary artery disease. Radial artery diameter was evaluated prior to the procedure using B-mode ultrasonography. RESULTS: Radial artery diameter was correlated with wrist circumference (r=0.539, p