Retrograde subintimal recanalization of a radial artery occlusion after coronary angiography using the palmar loop technique.

We report interventional management of critical hand ischemia after transradial coronary angiography. The radial artery occlusion was confirmed by Doppler ultrasound and digital subtraction angiography. The radial artery was opened using retrograde recanalization technics through the palmar arch. After guidewire passage the proximal occlusion site was stented with balloon expandable drug eluting stent, and the distal segment underwent balloon angioplasty. The report discusses the potential risks and advantages of angioplasty in the treatment of a symptomatic radial artery occlusion and the retrograde recanalization technique via the palmar arch.