A modified transparent angiography catheter: preliminary in vivo and in vitro evaluations.

Most of the serious neurologic complications related to angiography are embolic in nature. Meticulous catheter flushing techniques have been suggested to reduce embolic complications [1] . An experimental catheter with a 20-cm-long transparent proximal section has been evaluated to determine its usefulness in monitoring catheter flushing procedures and inadvertent injections of emboli. Catheters that are transparent throughout their entire length may not have enough radiopacity or torque control to enable adequate manipulation. Replacing the proximal portion of the catheter with a transparent tubing preserves maneuverability of the original catheter while allowing direct visualization of the extravascular portion of the catheter lumen. We report our initial experience with this modified transparent catheter.