guide extension catheter
A coaxial support catheter that extends through the guide catheter to provide enhanced backup support and equipment deliverability.
Full Definition
A guide extension catheter (GuideLiner, Guidezilla, or similar devices) is a thin-walled, coaxial catheter that extends beyond the tip of the guide catheter to provide additional backup support and facilitate equipment delivery in challenging cases. These devices are particularly useful in complex anatomy such as severe tortuosity, heavily calcified vessels, or when crossing chronic total occlusions. The guide extension catheter tracks over a guidewire or balloon catheter already positioned in the target vessel, then provides a stable platform for delivering stents, IVUS catheters, or other devices. Potential complications include vessel dissection, entrapment, or interference with guide catheter engagement.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the brand name when documenting device usage.
In Context
- "A guide extension catheter was deployed to facilitate stent delivery through the severely tortuous RCA." — Interventional procedure report
- "The guide extension catheter became entrapped and required careful withdrawal with the stent delivery system." — Complication report