Identification and management of complications of transradial procedures.

Adoption of the transradial approach for coronary procedures is rapidly growing in the US. A decrease in vascular complications and improved patient comfort are the primary benefits of this technique compared to femoral artery access. However, as this is still an invasive procedure, it is important for operators who utilize this technique to be aware of the known complications that are associated with radial access. Radial artery occlusion and spasm are the most common issues that occur with transradial procedures. Vascular complications such as perforations, forearm hematomas and pseudoaneurysm formation are much less common.