Clinical and Electrophysiological Assessment of Peripheral Nerve Function After Transradial Angiography: A Prospective Study.

BACKGROUND

Transradial angiography (TRA) is widely used in contemporary coronary procedures. Although clinically apparent peripheral nerve injury after TRA is uncommon, subclinical nerve involvement may go unrecognized. This study aimed to objectively assess peripheral nerve function after TRA using neurological examination, standardized neuropathic pain questionnaires, and nerve conduction studies (NCS).

METHODS

This prospective, single-center observational study included consecutive patients undergoing transradial coronary angiography. A total of 107 patients were analyzed. Neurological examination was performed within 24-48 hours after the procedure. Neuropathic symptoms were evaluated using the Douleur Neuropathique en 4 (DN4) and Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS) questionnaires. Bilateral nerve conduction studies of the median, ulnar, and radial nerves were performed 1 month after TRA, and side-to-side comparisons were conducted.

RESULTS

Side-to-side differences were observed in selected nerve conduction parameters. These electrophysiological changes predominantly involved the radial nerve on the procedure side, characterized by lower sensory amplitude, reduced conduction velocity, and decreased motor amplitude (P < .05). Median and ulnar nerve conduction findings were largely comparable between sides. Douleur Neuropathique en 4 and LANSS scores were in normal ranges and not associated with nerve conduction parameters. No clinically evident local or neurological complications were detected during follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Transradial angiography may be associated with mild, procedure-side predominant radial nerve conduction changes detectable by NCS, without clinically evident neuropathy. Objective electrophysiological assessment may therefore help identify underrecognized subclinical nerve involvement following TRA.