ABSTRACT
The simplest catheter is a vascular dilator. This is a short, slightly firm catheter with a single hole in the end. Flush catheters are typically used in large vessels, such as the aorta, under fairly high pressure, so that an adequate bolus of contrast can be administered quickly. An exchange catheter may also be used for interval arteriography to assess the results of an endovascular procedure. Working with angiographic catheters in general is marked by the dilemma of too many choices, rather than too few. The diameter of the catheter should be as small as possible to accomplish the task at hand. The catheter must be long enough to reach the target site and have enough length outside the patient for appropriate manipulations. Catheter head shape determines function. A brief glance at a catheter helps to determine its intended purpose. The potential for constructing different catheter head shapes is unlimited.
