Objective:

To present the experience of one Department in coronary angiography as regards the left distal radius approach through the anatomical snuff box.

Material and Method:

A total of 40 patients were subjected to coronary angiography through the anatomical snuff box, from April to August 2018. A descriptive analysis was performed on the quantitative variables associated with the procedure (frequency of failed access, failed procedure, procedure time, fluoroscope time, patient pain level, feeling of comfort for the patient and for the operator, amount of contrast used, and some demographic variables). The study included patients over 18 years-old with an indication for coronary angiography for a diagnostic study, and with a palpable pulse in the anatomic snuff box area.

Results and conclusion:

The mean amount of contrast media employed was 49 ml (SD ± 13), the mean procedure time was 11.3 minutes (SD ± 4.3), and the mean fluoroscope time was 3.3 minutes (SD ± 2.8). The median for the pain level in patients was 4, the median for comfort of the operator was 10, and the median for comfort of the patient was also 10. It was able to be concluded that the left distal radial access is a technically feasible alternative. It is comfortable for the patient and the operator, with low failure rates and complications in selected patients.

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