The Optimal Arterial Access for Coronary Angiography: Femoral Route versus the Radial Route

Abstract

The radial or femoral route is commonly used to access the coronary circulation for diagnostic coronary angiography or percutaneous coronary intervention. The radial route has been shown to be superior to the femoral route due to lower procedural costs, quicker recovery times and early discharge from hospital. Furthermore it is beneficial for patients who have back problems and are unable to lie flat for prolonged periods of time which is often the case with the femoral route. Several studies have highlighted lower vascular access complications and bleeding events from the radial route. Bleeding in itself is associated with adverse outcomes therefore by electing to perform coronary procedures by the radial route avoids such complications.