PARIS, May 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Cordis announces the launch in Europe of Radial Solutions, a complete portfolio for transradial interventions. New to the portfolio is the Cordis RADIALSOURCE(TM) Transradial Access Kit. RADIALSOURCE(TM) Transradial Sheaths are designed to provide physicians with atraumatic and smooth access to the radial artery during diagnostic and interventional procedures and is a result of Cordis' long standing commitment to driving innovation.

The rate of transradial procedures (TRA) in cardiovascular interventions is growing. Several studies have shown lower complication rates associated with transradial compared to the femoral approach.[1] Cordis, a division of Johnson & Johnson Medical, is dedicated to providing complete solutions for cardiovascular interventions. The "Radial Solutions" portfolio, including the RADIALSOURCE(TM) Transradial Sheaths, diagnostic and guiding catheters has been created in close cooperation with clinical partners to meet the requirements for this technique.

TRA offers significant benefits for patients, especially in patients who are at high risk of bleeding. Completing haemostasis after TRA is simpler as the artery is superficial and easier to compress, increasing patient comfort.

Cordis Radial Solutions portfolio comprises of Cordis' well known guiding and diagnostic catheters with new specific radial shapes, transradial sheath introducer, guidewires and professional education training.

The RADIALSOURCE(TM) Transradial Sheath incorporates a new tapering design in conjunction with a lubricious coating, offering the benefits of low insertion force with a smooth atraumatic entry, while enabling stability during procedure and ease of removal. Customers will be offered a choice of kit with a bare metal spring mini guidewire or a polymer-coated mini guidewire.

Cordis is dedicated to professional education and is committed to expanding the use of radial approach to improve patient safety through teaching and tutoring to improve outcomes. "We offer comprehensive training through our Cordis Cardiac & Vascular Institute programme, conducted in co-operation with leading interventional cardiologists, who have the goal of sharing expertise for better patient outcomes," said Christian Spaulding, M.D. Worldwide Vice President, Medical Affairs, Cordis Corporation