Administration of ViperSlide™ for treating severe radial artery spasm: Case report and systematic review of the literature

Radial artery spasm is a rare complication of transradial cardiac catheterization. We describe a case of severe radial artery spasm causing catheter entrapment. The spasm was resistant to local and systemic vasodilator administration, moderate sedation, and application of warm blankets over the affected arm. While preparations were being made for inducing general anesthesia, ViperSlide™ (Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. St. Paul, Minnesota) was delivered through the radial sheath resolving the spasm. Coronary angiography could not be performed using standard catheters, but was successfully completed using a 6 French Ikari left guide catheter (Terumo, Somerset, New Jersey). •Radial spasm is a frequent complication during transradial cardiac catheterization.•Radial spasm is commonly treated with supportive measures that include local and systemic vasodilator administration, moderate sedation, and application of warmth to the affected arm.•Administration of lubricant solutions, such as Viperslide, may result in spasm relief and allow for performance of coronary angiography with use of specialized catheters.