Name of the Procedure:

Catheter, Guiding (may include infusion/perfusion capability)
(Common Name: Guiding Catheter Insertion)
(Medical Term: C1887)

Summary

A guiding catheter is a specialized tube that is inserted into the blood vessels to help doctors direct other medical devices to a specific location inside the body. It may also have the capability to deliver medications directly into the bloodstream.

Purpose

Guiding catheters are used to navigate through complex vascular pathways to diagnose or treat conditions such as blockages, aneurysms, and other vascular diseases. The goal is accurate placement of medical devices or medications.

Indications

• Patients experiencing chest pain or angina
• Blockages or narrowing in blood vessels
• Aneurysms or vascular malformations
• Need for targeted drug delivery

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 6-8 hours prior
• Adjustment or discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners)
• Pre-procedure imaging tests such as an angiogram, MRI, or CT scan

Procedure Description

1. The patient lies on an examination table.
2. Sterilization of the entry site (usually the groin or arm).
3. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
4. A small incision is made to access the blood vessel.
5. A guidewire is inserted through the incision and navigated to the target site.
6. The guiding catheter is threaded over the guidewire to the desired location.
7. The guidewire is removed, leaving the catheter in place.
8. Additional diagnostic or therapeutic procedures are performed as needed.
9. The catheter is withdrawn, and a pressure dressing is applied to the incision site.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on complexity.

Setting

Performed in a hospital’s catheterization lab or an outpatient clinic equipped for vascular procedures.

Personnel

• Interventional cardiologist or radiologist
• Nurses
• Technicians
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation or general anesthesia is required)

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding or bruising at the insertion site
• Infection
• Blood vessel damage
• Rarely, allergic reaction to contrast dye or sedation

Benefits

• Precise delivery of diagnostic tools or treatment
• Minimally invasive with a faster recovery time
• Can effectively treat or diagnose various vascular conditions

Recovery

• Monitoring in a recovery room for a few hours
• Limiting physical activity for several days
• Keeping the insertion site clean and dry
• Follow-up appointments for assessment

Alternatives

• Non-invasive imaging tests (e.g., MRI, CT scans)
• Medications without direct delivery
• Surgical alternatives for more severe conditions

Pros and cons should be discussed with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your condition.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort or pressure during insertion
• Post-procedure soreness at the incision site
• Pain management with prescribed medications if needed