Is there any contraindication to transradial approach on the same side as a mastectomy, and if so, why?
There is no clear contraindication to accessing the artery on the same side as a mastectomy. Arterial puncture and the compression of the distal forearm should not impact lymphedema. That being said, most patients are very nervous about any procedures in the arm on the side of the mastectomy, as they have been told multiple times to avoid any instrumentation. Rather than risk worrying the patient, we generally use the opposite arm, even though we think the same side would be safe.
