Transradial Approach for Thoracolumbar Spinal Angiography and Tumor Embolization: Feasibility and Technical Considerations

Abstract

The transradial approach (TRA) is an effective and safe alternative to transfemoral access for diagnostic neuroangiography and craniocervical interventions. While the technical aspects of supraclavicular intervention are well-described, there are little data on the TRA for thoracolumbar angiography and intervention. The authors describe the feasibility of the TRA for preoperative thoracic tumor embolization, emphasizing technique, device selection, navigation, and catheterization of thoracolumbar segmental arteries. This approach extends the benefits of TRA to spinal interventional neuroradiology.

Distal transradial access for targeted spinal angiography and embolization

“…Caton et al have recently described a series where embolization was performed for a T3 metastatic lesion and an L4 aneurysmal bone cyst. 14 These reports also highlight the feasibility of segmental arterial catheterization and embolization along the entire spinal neuraxis.…”

“…Our case series highlights the feasibility of transradial access for spinal angiography, supplementing the existing literature on the topic published previously. [13][14][15][16] The procedure is especially useful for targeted angiography and embolization prior to major surgical resections for vascular spinal tumors. There was a very low rate of minor complications with no incidences of major access site bleeding events, critical hand ischemia or permanent neurological deficits.…”