Radial Artery Dilation Study: The Effect of Topical Administration of Nitroglycerin and Lidocaine Versus Lidocaine Alone of the Radial Artery Diameter

The radial artery, which is located on the outer side of the forearm, can be used in interventional procedures, such as cardiac catheterization, to provide access to the arterial blood supply. In order to facilitate successful catheterization of the artery, a dilated artery and one free of arterial spasm is desirable. The proposed study will randomize twenty three healthy subjects in 2 visits to determine the effect of topical nitroglycerin on radial artery vasodilation. Radial artery diameter will be measured with ultrasound at regular intervals up to two hours.