This is a phase IV, prospective, open label, randomized-controlled study that will compare radial access with state-of-the-art femoral access in patients without ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction undergoing cardiac catheterization. Subjects will be randomized 1:1 into 2 treatment groups: radial access and state-of-the-art femoral access. Randomization will be performed in blocks of 50 per site. Similarly, a second sub-randomization will be performed in the femoral access group into use of 18 vs 21 gauge needles, also in a 1:1 fashion.
Age 18 years and older
Undergoing diagnostic angiography for ischemic symptoms with possible PCI, or undergoing planned urgent or elective PCI
Has provided informed consent and agrees to participate
Patients must be equally eligible to undergo cardiac catheterization via radial or femoral access
Primary PCI for STEMI
Planned right heart catheterization
Valvular heart disease requiring valve surgery within 30 days after the index procedure
Hemodialysis access (arteriovenous fistula or graft) in the arm to be used for PCI in case of assignment to radial approach (the opposite arm may be used for radial access if a dialysis graft is present in one)