Serpentine vs Traditional Hydrophilic Guidewire Tracking in Complex Radial Anatomy

Coronary angiography and angioplasty are commonly performed through the radial artery. In some patients, anatomical variations of the radial and brachial arteries, such as loops, increased tortuosity or sharp angulations may pose challenges to equipment advancement. Both the hydrophilic guidewire 0,035'' approach and the "Serpentine" technique have been described in the literature as techniques for overcoming radial anatomical challenges, with the hydrophilic guidewire approach being the more commonly used method. In practical terms, both techniques involve the use of the same standard materials, with differences relating mainly to operator handling and technical manipulation. This study does not introduce any experimental device, material, or treatment; instead, it aims to compare the established approach using a 0.035'' hydrophilic guidewire with the emerging " Serpentine" technique with respect to effectiveness, procedural time, and safety.