Large Sheath Management in Patients with Poor Peripheral Access

Despite the evolution of device technology and increasing operator experience, vascular and bleeding complications remain a major source of perioperative morbidity and mortality, particularly in patients with peripheral arterial disease. These complications may be compounded with the use of large bore access sheaths for mechanical support, which may be required to be left in the vessels for a prolonged period of time. Through this article, the authors demonstrate the importance of assessment for peripheral arterial disease before insertion of large bore sheaths. They also describe various strategies to manage occlusive sheaths for distal reperfusion and percutaneous axillary artery access as an alternate option.

RadialFirst in CHIP and Cardiogenic Shock

This article highlights the advantages and disadvantages of transradial arterial (TRA) access for a variety of presentations including acute coronary syndromes; cardiogenic shock; unprotected left main, heavily calcified coronaries; bifurcations; and chronic total occlusions. It includes techniques for overcoming challenges of using TRA access, including spasm and the need for larger bore guides. In addition, the authors review the use of ultrasound for access, percutaneous hemodynamic support via axillary approach, and tips and tricks to performing right heart catheterizations from the antecubital vein.