Correlation of a guidewire maximum insertion length with tortuous radial artery and the success rate during transradial coronary angiography

Background: Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a safe and effective therapy for patients with obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). We aimed to assess the correlation between the success rate of angiography and the maximum insertion length and resistance of a soft-tipped guidewire. Methods 521 patients were treated by successful radial artery puncture. According to whether the guidewire resistance, the patients were divided to three groups. 17 patients were maximum insertion length of guidewire ≤ 30 cm when resistance was encountered (group 1). 17 patients were maximum insertion length of guidewire between 30 cm and 45 cm when resistance was encountered (group 2). 487 patients were no resistance encountered (group 3). Results The coronary angiography success rates of group 1, 2, and 3 were 52.94%, 47.05%, 98.97%, respectively. Typically, angiography can be completed in patients with Ω-shaped, S-shape or Z-shaped tortuosity. Conclusions The maximum insertion length of straight guidewire and resistance can be used to determine radial artery status. The radial artery tortuosity or spasm significantly affects the success rate of coronary angiography.