The Particulars: Radial access for PCI in patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is associated with lower rates of bleeding and improved clinical outcomes when compared with femoral access PCI. However, data on the frequency and temporal trends in the use of transradial PCI for patients with STEMI in a real-world setting are lacking.
Data Breakdown: Researchers in Michigan compared transradial access (TRA) with transfemoral access (TFA) for patients undergoing PCI for STEMI or for other indications from 2010 to 2013. Although TRA use increased substantially for all patients, this growth was significantly slower for STEMI patients. Lower bleeding and transfusion rates were observed with TRA use when compared with TFA use, but no significant difference was seen in in-hospital mortality.
Take Home Pearls: Use of TRA for PCI in patients with STEMI appears to be increasing but at a slower pace than for patients with other indications. TRA appears to significantly reduce bleeding and transfusion rates in STEMI patient when compared with TFA.
