Comparison of ultrasound guided dorsal radial artery cannulation and conventional radial artery cannulation at the volar aspect of wrist: A pilot randomized controlled trial

Background: Distal radial artery cannulation at the “anatomical snuffbox” carries several theoretical advantages over conventional radial arterial cannulation at the wrist. However, these two techniques have not been evaluated in perioperative settings. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, n = 200 patients requiring arterial cannulation for perioperative monitoring were recruited. Patients were randomized to either ultrasound guided distal radial artery cannulation group (group D) or ultrasound guided conventional radial artery cannulation group (group W). Primary outcome of this study was first attempt cannulation success rate. Results: First attempt cannulation success rate was significantly lower in distal radial artery cannulation (57% in group D and 77% in group W; p = 0.003). Use of alternative cannulation site was significantly higher in group D when compared to group W ( p = 0.015) and number of attempts for successful cannulation was significantly higher in group D when compared to group W ( p = 0.015). None of the patients in any group developed thrombosis and related complications and intraoperative catheter dislodgement. Time to puncture the artery ( p < 0.0001), total cannulation time ( p < 0.0001), and actual catheter insertion time ( p < 0.0001) were significantly higher in group D in comparison to group W. Conclusion: Distal radial artery cannulation was associated with lower first attempt cannulation success rate and requires longer time to perform. As distal radial artery is a new technique, further studies are required in different clinical settings.