Radiation Exposure with the Radial Approach for Diagnostic Coronary Angiography in a Centre Previously Performing Purely the Femoral Approach

The overall mean FT for transradial cases (7.45 mins) was significantly higher than for transfemoral cases (4.59 mins; p<0.001). The overall mean DAP for transradial cases (95.64 G Gycm 2 ) was significantly higher than for transfemoral cases (70.25 Gycm 2 , p<0.05)). Neither the FT nor the DAP decreased over the six month period. Conclusion The radial approach was associated with significantly higher DAP and FT compared to the femoral approach during an initial introductory phase which was likely insufficient to develop radial proficiency. The results of this study are consistent with previous studies and may influence choice of access for nonemergent diagnostic coronary angiography before radial proficiency has been established, particularly for patients more susceptible to radiation risks.