[Accessing arteries in interventional radiology].

Transbrachial and transfemoral punctures are the conventional methods for accessing arteries in digital subtraction angiography (DSA). How to perform the punctures and how to use the different materials are elementary basics for diagnostic interventions in DSA, such as dilatating, stenting, coiling, implanting ports or chemical embolization. With both puncture methods different anatomic settings have to be considered and also experience with handling the surgical instruments has to be acquired. The management of complications and knowledge on the risk factors associated with each procedure are further requirements. An essential subject of studies is increasing the comfort for the patients by finding less invasive techniques in DSA.