guide catheter
Large-bore catheter that provides stable support and access for delivering interventional devices during coronary procedures.
Full Definition
A guide catheter is a hollow, flexible tube with a large internal diameter that serves as the primary conduit for delivering guidewires, balloon catheters, and stents during percutaneous coronary intervention. These catheters are shaped specifically for different coronary anatomy (such as Judkins left, Judkins right, or Amplatz configurations) and must provide adequate backup support while maintaining vessel patency. The selection of appropriate guide catheter shape and size is crucial for procedural success, particularly in complex lesions requiring strong support.
Usage
Usage note: Often shortened to 'guide' in procedural notes. Size measured in French units (Fr).
In Context
- "A 6 French EBU 3.5 guide catheter was used to engage the left main coronary artery." — Procedural equipment list
- "The guide catheter provided inadequate support, necessitating a change to a more supportive configuration." — Interventional cardiology case report