Journal de cardiologie interventionnelle et générale

Phototherapy to Mitigate Complications of Left Heart Catheterization with Transradial Access (TRA)

Abstract

James R. Kneller*

Transradial access is preferred for coronary angiography due to reduced complication risk. Procedural complications still occur, however, including nerve damage and regional pain syndrome. Guidelines for optimal treatment are lacking. This case involves a 74 year-old female referred for diagnostic coronary angiography using right radial access. At two-week follow up, she presented with moderate pain at the vascular access site and with moderate numbness and weakness in the right index finger, suggestive of radial nerve injury. Phototherapy using a set of cutaneous patches (Ice Wave from LifeWave Corp) was used to releave these symptoms, leading to complete resolution of symptoms. These devices contain natural compounds that reflect back infrared frequencies emitted by the skin. Biologic activity include elevation of glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine (GHK), having a plethora of effects. This non-pharmacologic adjunctive therapy may be useful to mitigate the complications of coronary angiography.