PERCUTANEOUS TRANSLUMINAL CORONARY ANGIOPLASTY THROUGH 6F DIAGNOSTIC CATHETERS - A FEASIBILITY STUDY

This study evaluated the feasibility of performing coronary angioplast y through 6F diagnostic catheters by mainly using over-the-wire balloo n systems on 84 lesions in 70 patients. Procedural variables, includin g vessel opacification and angioplasty outcome, were assessed. Changes in hematocrit after angioplasty were compared for 6F versus 7F and 8F systems. Successful 6F dilatation was performed in 72 (85.7%) of 84 l esions and 58 (82.9%) of 70 patients. Seven of the 12 lesions unable t o be dilated with 6F systems were successfully dilated with larger Fre nch systems. Coronary artery opacification with the 6F catheters after balloon dilation was less than optimal with the balloon and guidewire still in the catheter. Changes in hematocrit after 6F procedures were significantly less than for 8F procedures (-2.1% vs -4.2%, respective ly, p < 0.01) but not for 7F procedures (-2.4%, p = not significant). Potential cost savings for angioplasty with 6F diagnostic catheters co uld be significant. Thus angioplasty with over-the-wire balloon system s in which 6F nontapered diagnostic catheters are used can be performe d safely and with less procedural blood loss than with 8F systems. Sig nificant problems encountered with the current catheter design were po or vessel opacification after balloon dilation and difficulties with b alloon retraction.