Catheters and Wires

Abstract

Diagnostic cardiac catheterization requires the use of a wide range of catheters and guidewires. Selection of appropriate equipment depends on the purpose of the study or plan for the intervention. There are a variety of catheters designed to serve particular purposes. However, one has to remember that success depends on the knowledge of patient’s anatomy, the physical properties of the chosen equipment, as well as the skills and experience of the operator. This chapter presents a brief overview of the available inventory and the principles of catheter and guidewire manipulation.