Closure Techniques

The superficial location of the radial artery access site eliminates the need for overly specialized closure devices. Manual compression is considered the gold standard technique. Closure devices in their many iterations are designed to work by applying continuous pressure using an adjustable balloon. They are arguably superior to manual compression as they exert a continuous and gentle pressure on the artery. The simplest, and cheapest devices might be the best ones. A good closure technique ensures compression with a “just needed” intensity to maintain anterograde flow. A good technique also incorporates the principle of patent hemostasis with or without prophylactic ulnar artery occlusion while keeping the whole process relatively simple. These techniques result in fewer radial artery occlusions and other complications. Lower complications ensure patency of the radial artery for future procedures.