Use of Glidesheath Slender to Reduce Radial Artery Occlusion and Vascular Access Site Complications Following Transradial Coronary Angiography

Based on previously reported studies the rates of radial artery occlusion using a standard 6 Fr. sheath is around 5-10%, compared to the single feasibility study of the Glidesheath Slender by Aminian et al (see reference in the citations), the rate of radial artery occlusion was reported 0.88%.

This study will be a prospective randomized, single-blinded (patient-blinded) study, comparing the rate of radial artery occlusion and vascular access site complications between the Glidesheath Slender (Terumo, Tokyo, Japan) and the standard 6 Fr. radial sheath in patients undergoing transradial coronary catheterization.

• The study will enroll patients who will undergo elective or emergency coronary angiography and/or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) via transradial approach at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.
• A baseline clinical vascular & ultrasound assessment will be performed prior to the procedure to document patency of the radial artery.
• Patients will be randomized in 1:1 fashion to either receive the Terumo Glidesheath Slender versus the currently used 6 Fr. sheath.
• The standard angiogram/ PCI will be performed as per usual practice.
• Following the angiogram, clinical vascular assessment as well as an ultrasound will be performed prior to discharge.
• At 30 days follow up the patient will come back for clinical and ultrasound assessment of radial artery patency and access site vascular complications.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients undergoing coronary angiography and/or PCI via transradial approach
• Informed consent
• Documented normal Allen's test

Exclusion criteria

• Patient who had a previous angiogram using the same radial artery
• Abnormal Allen's test
• Previous failed radial access.
• Known bleeding disorder or hypercoagulable condition
• Cardiogenic shock