Comparison Between Transradial Versus Transfemoral Arterial Approach for Cerebral Angiography

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Catheterized cerebral angiography has long been recognized as a reliable and precise method for assessing the vascular system. The transfemoral and transradial approaches are two well-established methods for this procedure. Objective: The aim of the study is to compare between transradial and transfemoral approach for cerebral angiography. Methods & Materials: This quasi-experimental study was conducted over a one and half year period. A total of 50 patients participated, with 25 undergoing the transradial approach and 25 undergoing the transfemoral approach. Secondary outcomes included Cross-over, access site complications and duration of hospital stay. Results: The mean age was 36.7 ± 14.3 years in TRA and 34.0 ± 7.44 years in TFA (p= 0.403), with no significant difference in sex distribution (p = 0.571). Successful catheterization rates were high for most supra-aortic and branch vessels, except for the left subclavian artery (60.0% in TRA vs. 100.0% in TFA, p < 0.001) and the left vertebral artery (44.0% in TRA vs. 92.0% in TFA, p < 0.001), where TFA had a significant advantage. TRA was associated with a significantly shorter hospital stay (7.64 ± 0.99 hours vs. 19.64 ± 4.46 hours, p < 0.001). Pain was significantly higher in the TFA group (80.0%) compared to the TRA group (48.0%, p = 0.018). Conclusions: This study compared the Transradial and Transfemoral approaches for cerebral angiography, finding that both techniques achieved high success rates. The transradial approach was associated with fewer access site complications, shorter hospital stays, and improved patient recovery.