Choosing the vascular access in interventional cardiology: evolution and contemporary practice

Abstract

Percutaneous coronary diagnostic and therapeutic procedures are very frequent worldwide and therefore bring to discussion the best vascular access for each patient. The vascular access for coronary angiography or coronary interventions must be chosen according to the patient's clinical and anatomical characteristics, as well as the experience of the interventional cardiologist. Several studies have shown the superiority of radial access compared to femoral access, reducing local complications, major cardiovascular events, death and hospital costs. The ulnar approach is a feasible and safe option in the absence of radial access.