Radial artery access site complications during cardiac procedures, clinical implications and potential solutions: The role of nitric oxide

Figure 1 Composition of the radial artery. The thick layer of tunica media contributes to the increased incidence of radial artery spasm. Vessel sheath mismatch induces spasm and friction. Spasm promotes friction which in turn induces more spasm, creating a continuous loop. The increased friction and spasm can lead to dissection of the artery lining.