Transradial approach for transarterial chemoembolization of hepatocellular carcinoma in Egyptian patients: Initial study

Background and aimExperience gained in transradial approach for cardiac catheterization resulted in many advantages including less bleeding complications, more patient comfort, and decreased costs with immediate ambulation. We described our initial experience with transradial approach for transarterial chemo-embolization (TACE) in Egyptian patients with HCC.Materials and methodsIn this prospective study, transradial TACE procedures were performed in 20 patients with HCC. Barbeau test was performed using a pulse oximeter to confirm the patency of the palmar arch. A 6F sheath was placed in the left radial artery using US guidance. A solution of 5000 U heparin, 10 mg verapamil, and 100 μg nitroglycerin was administered intra arterially. Technical success, early (30-day) complications, and patient acceptance were evaluated.ResultsTechnical success was achieved in all cases (100%). No major complications were encountered in the first 30 days. Mild pain was observed in 1 case (5%) and managed by analgesics. No radial artery thrombosis was found with an asymptomatic small hematoma in one patient (5%) which resolved spontaneously. 5/20 patients (25%) had prior transfemoral artery TACE and all 5 patients (100%) preferred the radial approach.ConclusionTransradial approach for TACE is feasible, safe, well-accepted and preferred in patients with previous femoral approaches.