Catheter basics Flashcards
3 types of steering and handles
Fixed handle
Uni directional
Bidirectional
Fixed handle
1 curve
Cannot be changed
Unidirectional
Able to deflect in only 1 direction
Common curves:
D, F, J
Plunger handle
Bidirectional
Able to deflect in 2 directions
Common curves:
D/F. F/J
EZ steer handle
Fixed handle (cont) curves
A curve, josephson
Small curve for small areas
HRA, RVA
D curve, domato
Large curve suited for ventricles
F curve
Cournand
Longer curve for HIS
Outer/inner polyurethane coating
Determines
Pushability
Torque
Flexibility
It is: Biocompatible Tear resistant Flexible Abrasion resistant Strong
Stainless steel wire braiding
32 double wire braiding in the shaft
Unique to BWI (others use 16)
Provides superior handling and control
Precise 1 to 1 torqueability
Stability
16 single wire braiding in the tip
Improved tissue contact
Less chance of trauma
Excellent tip stability
Helps keep electrode on spot while applying energy
Lead wire
of lead wires correlates to the # of electrodes the cath has
Carries electrical info from electrodes to cable to PIU
Compression coils
0.1 mm stainless wire rolling on compression coil
Prevents waviness of shaft during deflection
Puller wire
Puller wire attaches to an anchor at the distal tip of catheter
Allows for predictable tip deflection with minimal chatter
Electrodes
Catheters are named based on the number of electrodes
Deca polar
Allow catheters to pace and record electrical activity
Electrodes are made of
90% platinum (high conductivity)
10% iridium (increased hardness)
Electrode spacing
Measured in mm from center of one electrode to the center of the next
2-8-2
Unique to BWI
Gives higher signal resolution
Catheter tip
Can be rounded (domed)
1-8mm in length
Core diagnostic catheters are only approved for:
Stimulation and recording