Transradial approach to subclavian artery stenting.

BACKGROUND

Subclavian artery angioplasty has been traditionally performed via the transfemoral approach. Transradial access is becoming increasingly used for coronary as well as for certain peripheral vascular beds. We describe our experience with transradial access for subclavian artery stenting.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of subclavian artery interventions from 2007 to 2009 at our institution. Demographics, clinical data, lesion and procedural characteristics were collected. Safety and efficacy endpoints were recorded, and follow-up was performed at 1 year post intervention. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

Fourteen cases of subclavian artery stenting, including 5 total occlusions, were performed using transradial access. The procedural success was 93%, and there were no complications recorded. All patients remained symptom-free at 1-year follow up.

CONCLUSIONS

Subclavian artery stenting can be safely performed via transradial access with success rates comparable to the transfemoral approach.