Transulnar Catheterization in Patients with Failed Ipsilateral Transradial Access: Novel TR Band Modification for Dual-Site Hemostasis.

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the feasibility and safety of transulnar access (TUA) and efficacy of novel TR band modification for dual site hemostasis in patients with failed ipsilateral transradial approach.

BACKGROUND

Failed transradial access requires cross over to alternative access site. There is paucity of data on feasibility and safety of ipsilateral TUA due to concern of potential risk of hand ischemia.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed ten patients who underwent coronary angiography and intervention via ulnar artery in the setting of failed ipsilateral transradial access. Patent hemostasis for both ulnar and radial arteries was achieved with novel modification of the TR band to compress both arteries at the same level of puncture sites.

RESULTS

TUA after failed ipsilateral transradial access was successful in all ten cases. All patients were followed within 7 days and there were no adverse complications such as ulnar artery occlusion, nerve injury, or hand ischemia.

CONCLUSION

TUA maybe a safe and viable option when cross over is necessary from failed ipsilateral transradial access. Modification of the TR band for both radial and ulnar access site can achieve patent hemostasis effectively at the level of both puncture sites.