Effect of Transradial Catheterisation on Patency Rates of Radial Arteries Used as a Conduit for Coronary Bypass

Background Transradial catheterisation is known to be associated with occlusion of the radial artery with an estimated incidence of 2-10% (1). There are very few studies looking at the patency of radial artery as a bypass graft after utilisation for catheterisation. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) utilising a radial artery graft. Results Long term patency rates were 59% in radial artery grafts utilised for catheterisation prior to CABG, compared to 78% if it were not (p= 0.035). Conclusion Patency rates of radial artery grafts are significantly lower when the same radial artery was utilised for angiography prior to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).