Sensory and motor neuropathy following transradial cardiac catheterization: A rare but potentially disabling complication

Abstract

Transradial arterial access for cardiac catheterization is an overall safe procedure but is associated with infrequent complications. Although very rare, the potential disability resulting from transradial access site complications can be profound, especially in cases involving the dominant hand. In this case report, we present a right-handed patient who underwent cardiac catheterization via right transradial access complicated by chronic neuropathic pain and weakness of the right forearm and hand. The degree of pain and weakness prevented him from returning to work, demonstrating the potential for rare but significant morbidity associated with radial access.