[Transradial approach for coronary angiography and angioplasty: the gold standard]. / Les coronarographies et les angioplasties coronaires par voie radiale: l'approche de choix?

Transradial approach in interventional cardiology is performed heterogenously around the world. Nevertheless, this technique allows to decrease access site complications and major bleeding, and increases patient's comfort. All patient subgroups beneficiate from this approach, especially in the case of acute coronary syndromes in which the bleeding risk is the highest, in relation to aggressive anticoagulation and platelet antiaggregation treatment. Transradial approach requires a longer learning curve than transfemoral approach due to specific technical challenges that are often overcome with experience. Because of its clear benefits, transradial access should become the gold standard approach for coronary diagnostic and interventional procedures.