Balloon Catheter
Term:Balloon Catheter
Category: Medical Devices
Definition: A specific type of medical device, which consists of a thin, flexible tube (catheter) with a tiny inflatable balloon on the distal end. Balloon catheters are commonly made from biocompatible materials, including polyurethane (PU), nylon or PEBAX®. The inflatable balloon can be inflated and deflated by injecting or withdrawing liquid or gas through the catheter lumen. This allows for the dilation of diseased (narrowed) vessels, stent placement, or drug/contrast delivery during diagnostic and interventional procedures. Balloon catheters can be used in both diagnostic (e.g., angiography) and therapeutic (e.g., angioplasty) settings. Many have hydrophilic coatings to reduce friction upon insertion and to facilitate navigation through vessels.
How they Work: This type of catheter is guided into a blocked or narrowed blood vessel and then inflated to open the passage and restore blood flow. If a stent is used, the balloon helps place it to keep the vessel open; afterward, the balloon is deflated and removed.
Uses:
- Coronary angioplasty (PTCA): To widen narrowed or blocked coronary arteries.
- Peripheral angioplasty: To restore blood flow in leg or renal arteries.
- Valvuloplasty: To open narrowed heart valves.
- Stent deployment: To position and expand vascular stents.
- Drug delivery: In drug-coated balloon systems to deliver antiproliferative agents to vessel walls.
Related Content and Resources:
Hydrophilic Catheter Coatings For Reduced Friction
