Basics of Guidewire Technology and Peripheral Artery Disease

Abstract

Guidewire technology has advanced significantly over the last several decades. As more components are incorporated providing valuable features, deciding which guidewire to use during peripheral artery disease (PAD) interventions has become more complex. The challenge for both the beginner and expert is not only understanding which components offer the best characteristics in a guidewire but choosing the optimal wire for an intervention. Manufacturers have attempted to optimize components to provide physicians with routinely available guidewires needed in everyday practice. Yet selecting the best guidewire for a particular situation during an intervention is still challenging. This article provides a basic overview of guidewire components and what benefits they offer during PAD interventions.

Keywords

guidewire components - guidewire features - core - spring coils - covers - coating - tip design - tip load - tip penetrance - interventional radiology

Disclosures

M.P. has no disclosures. S.T. is a course faculty, speaker, and consultant for Abbott Vascular, Terumo Corp., Cardiovascular Systems Inc.

Publication History

Article published online:
16 June 2023

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