Distal Transradial Access Optimization: A Prospective Trial of Ultrasound-Guided Radial Artery Characterization for the Anatomical Snuffbox

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The distal transradial approach (dTRA) is increasingly used in interventional cardiology. Doppler Ultrasound (DUS) effectively assesses radial artery (RA) characteristics. This study aims to identify specific RA DUS characteristics in patients undergoing coronary procedures via dTRA. Methods: Participants from the ANTARES trial who completed the intervention per-protocol and retained RA patency were included. DUS was performed at baseline, 1 day, and 60 days post-procedure. Results: Among 400 participants, 348 had either dTRA (n = 169) or conventional transradial access (cTRA) (n = 179). Distal RA lumen diameter was 12% smaller than that of the proximal RA (p < 0.001). Men had a 14% larger distal RA diameter than women (2.33 ± 0.31 mm vs. 2.04 ± 0.27 mm, p < 0.0001), similar to the proximal RA relationship. Peak flow velocities were similar between the sexes. Univariate linear regression showed that height, weight, body mass index, and body surface area (BSA) predicted arterial size, with BSA remaining significant in multivariate analysis (beta coefficient 0.62; confidence interval 0.49–0.75; p < 0.0001). Distal RA diameter correlated positively with palpable pulse at the snuffbox and wrist. The dTRA resulted in an immediate 14% and 11% increase in distal and proximal RA diameter, respectively (both p < 0.05). Sixty days after dTRA, the distal RA remained slightly dilated (p < 0.05), while the proximal RA returned to baseline. Conclusions: Distal RA diameter is significantly associated with sex, measuring smaller than the forearm segment. A strong palpable pulse correlates with larger distal RA size. The dTRA induces RA lumen expansion. A thorough understanding of distal RA anatomy is essential for optimizing patient selection and refining techniques for transradial procedures.