Effect of randomized prophylactic nitroglycerin on radial artery spasm during transradial catheterization: An analysis based on operator experience.

One limitation to transradial access (TRA) is the occurrence of spasms (RAS), for which the use of prophylactic medications is recommended. Improvement in TRA material combined with the increase in operators' expertise, might mitigate this benefit. We assess the effect of preventive nitroglycerin on RAS during TRA, evaluating the role of the operator's experience.

Randomized Clinical Trial on Prevention of Radial Occlusion After Transradial Access Using Nitroglycerin: PATENS Trial.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether administration of nitroglycerin at the beginning or end of a transradial approach (TRA) procedure would preserve radial patency.

Background: The TRA is becoming the preferred vascular access route in coronary interventions. Radial artery occlusion (RAO) is the most frequent complication.