Microcatheter
Term: Microcatheter
Category: Medical Devices
Definition: Microcatheters are a type of thin catheter with great flexibility. They are used to gain access into very small or difficult to navigate (a.k.a complex) blood vessels located in regions such as the brain, heart, or peripheral blood vessels. These devices are generally made from various types of synthetic material (nylon, Pebax®, and PTFE) that have been engineered to be compatible with the human body.
Uses:
- Neurovascular interventions: Treatment of aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, or ischemic stroke.
- Coronary interventions: Accessing small branches of coronary arteries.
- Peripheral vascular procedures: Targeted embolization or angioplasty.
- Drug delivery: Localized infusion of chemotherapeutic agents or contrast media.
- Interventional radiology: Embolization for tumor treatment or bleeding control.
Related Content and Resources:
Hydrophilic Catheter Coatings For Reduced Friction
Hydrophilic Coatings Outperform Hydrophobic Coatings for Catheters and Stents
Hydrophilic Coatings for Medical Devices: Intro, Benefits & Uses
