ABSTRACT
Guidewires and catheters comprise the foundation of endovascular intervention, both technically and conceptually. Guidewire-catheter skills are not necessarily intuitive but must be developed. Once acquired, these skills permit a di Rerent way of considering and treating vascular problems. Guidewires and catheters are useless without each other. However, the guidewire-catheter apparatus plays a role similar to that of the arterial clamp. It provides control and permits access to the vasculature. Although understanding the various types of guidewires and catheters is important, the speci Qc function of each does not ring true until the clinician handles the apparatus and puts it to use. Although there are many correct choices, the wrong choice of a guidewire-catheter apparatus may become painfully obvious, often at the worst time, and may threaten the success of the procedure.
