Abstract 14865: Comparative Analysis of Radial Versus Femoral Diagnostic Cardiac Catheterization Procedures in a Cardiology Training Program

Background: The use of radial access for cardiac catheterization has been increasing for both diagnostic coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary interventions. In comparison with femoral access, radial approach decreases access site complications and prolonged bed rest, which leads to patient preference. Comparison between these two techniques however, is limited with cardiology fellowship trainees as primary operators. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of 163 consecutive radial and 180 consecutive femoral access diagnostic cardiac catheterization procedures, with cardiology fellowship trainees as primary operators. Variables including procedure time, fluoroscopy time, dose area product (DAP), and contrast volume used were recorded for all procedures. Mann-Whitney and rank Anova tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: The radial approach was associated with significantly higher fluoroscopy time (8.0±6.97 vs 4.25±3.01 minutes, p<0.001), DAP (10775±6724 vs 7952±4236 micoGy/m2, p<...