Intermediate
Technical
IVT
crossover
The procedural switch from radial to femoral arterial access or vice versa during cardiac catheterization.
Full Definition
Crossover in interventional cardiology refers to changing the arterial access route during a procedure, most commonly from radial to femoral access. This may be necessary due to radial artery spasm, anatomical variants, inability to engage coronary ostia, or need for larger guide catheters. While crossover rates have decreased with operator experience and improved techniques, it remains an important procedural consideration that may affect patient outcomes and procedural duration.
Usage
Usage note: Context is important as crossover has different meanings in clinical trials and genetics.
In Context
- "Crossover to femoral access was necessary due to severe radial artery tortuosity." — Procedural complication note
- "The crossover rate in our radial program has decreased to less than 2% with experience." — Quality improvement report
Also known as
access site conversion
route conversion
Don't confuse with
crossing over
crossover lesion