First Reported Use Of A Visualization Device For The Radial Artery With Near-Infrared Rays Through The Transradial Approach

N Objectives. The transradial approach (TRA) is recommended in coronary catheterization due to the lower rate of bleeding complications compared with the transfemoral approach. However, a disadvantage of TRA is difficulty in puncturing under palpation of the radial pulse alone without arterial visibility. To overcome this limitation, a vessel visualization device using near-infrared rays, Art View (Forte Grow Medical Company), was used in the puncture of the radial artery (RA). Methods. Patients who underwent coronary angiography via the right RA with Art View were retrospectively surveyed. According to the quality of RA visibility, the performance of the Art View was rated as follows: 5 = excellent; 4 = good; 3 = fair; 2 = not good; and 1 = poor. The primary endpoint was the procedural success of TRA using the Art View device. The secondary endpoints were procedural time (from injection of local anesthesia to successful crossing of the guidewire attached to the sheath), number of RA punctures, and change of puncture method or approach site. Results. The Art View device was used in 38 patients (mean age, 71 +/- 11 years). Puncturing of the visualized RA was successful in 30 patients (79.0%). Among successful cases, the mean procedural time was 142 +/- 87 seconds. The success rates of each visualization evaluation were 100%, 100%, 84.6%, 33.3%, and 0% from grades 5 to 1, respectively (P<.01). The mean procedural times were 92 +/- 18 seconds, 102 +/- 58 seconds, 180 +/- 75 seconds, 306 +/- 80 seconds, and not available from grades 5 to 1, respectively (P<.01). Conclusion. The Art View RA visualization device is useful for RA puncture.