buddy wire
An additional guidewire placed alongside the primary wire to provide extra support or maintain access during complex procedures.
Full Definition
A buddy wire is a second guidewire placed in parallel to the primary working guidewire to provide enhanced support, improve device trackability, or maintain vascular access during challenging interventional procedures. This technique is particularly useful in tortuous anatomy, heavily calcified lesions, or when crossing complex bifurcations. The buddy wire can help straighten vessel curves, provide a rail for difficult device delivery, or serve as a backup access route if the primary wire is lost. Buddy wire techniques require careful attention to vessel sizing to avoid overcrowding and potential complications. The additional wire should be removed once its purpose is served to minimize procedural risk.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the purpose and position of the buddy wire in documentation.
In Context
- "A buddy wire was placed to provide additional support for crossing the heavily calcified lesion." — Interventional technique description
- "The buddy wire technique facilitated stent delivery through the tortuous right coronary artery." — Complex PCI procedure note