Ultrasound imaging is a reliable method to evaluate the diameter of forearm arteries and track their course in patients undergoing invasive cardiovascular procedures via radial artery access. The diameter of the radial artery by ultrasound evaluation is larger compared to that of the ulnar artery. The diameter of forearm arteries in women is smaller compared to men. A dilatation of the radial artery which may last up to 12 months develops following its percutaneous cannulation. Ultrasound imaging allows detection and monitoring of local complications such as radial artery occlusion. An unfavourable ratio of blood vessel diameter to the size of the used introducer sheath is a predictor of radial artery occlusion. Ultrasound imaging enables reliable evaluation of vascular anomalies involving the radial artery, especially within the distal forearm.

No abstract