Case Report: When crossing is not enough: restoring functional access in an extreme brachial artery loop during primary PCI - Summary - MDSpire

Case Report: When crossing is not enough: restoring functional access in an extreme brachial artery loop during primary PCI

  • By

  • Ali Hakan Konuş

  • Recep Polat

  • July 16, 2026

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Objective:

To highlight the distinction between successful traversal of tortuous arterial anatomy and achieving functional access during primary PCI in a specific case.

Approach:
  • Procedural Strategy: A structured escalation strategy was employed, involving sequential exchange to progressively higher-support guidewires to restore functional access.
Key Findings:
  • Successful traversal does not guarantee functional access in cases of extreme arterial tortuosity.
  • Geometric correction is necessary to achieve effective catheter performance.
  • A correctability-focused escalation strategy can restore functional access.
Interpretation:

This case highlights the need for a structured approach to manage extreme upper-limb arterial tortuosity, focusing on geometric correction.

Limitations:
  • The findings are based on a single patient experience, which may limit their applicability.
  • The specific techniques used may not be suitable for all cases of arterial tortuosity.
Conclusion:

This case supports a structured framework for managing extreme upper-limb arterial tortuosity, emphasizing the importance of assessing functional access.

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