CONSTRUCTION AND USE OF A SIMPLE, SELF-GUIDING CATHETER FOR RIGHT HEART AND PULMONARY ARTERY IMPLANTATION

摘要

A catheter has been developed which can be easily and rapidly implanted in the right heart or pulmonary artery. Fabricated from Tygon tubing, the catheter contains a thin section located 2 cm. from the distal end. This results in a tip which follows the bloodstream without special manipulation. During implantation, its position is monitored by the use of a pressure transducer, thus eliminating the need for flours copy. Since the catheter is self-guiding, it may be implanted with ease from such distal locations as the femoral vein. It can be used to inject substances directly into the heart or pulmonary artery, or to withdraw blood samples. It also can be used to make pressure recordings of high quality from these areas.