| The Inoue-Balloon Catheter is manufactured of polyvinyl
chloride with a balloon attached to the distal end. The balloon is two latex
layers between which is polyester micromesh. The catheter is supplied in
a 12F diameter with a length of 70 cm; the length of each balloon is 2.5
cm (un-stretched). Two proximally positioned stopcocks accomplish balloon
inflation and catheter venting. A stainless steel tube is used to stretch
and slenderize the balloon prior to insertion and a 14F tapered dilator
enlarges the interatrial opening. The stainless steel stylet and guidewire
are employed to guide the catheter inside the heart and blood vessels. A
syringe is used to manually inflate the balloon and balloon diameter is
measured with a caliper (ruler). The balloon design exhibits five uniquely different inflation stages [See Figure]. Radiopaque dilute contrast medium is injected to achieve inflation. Changing the volume of dilute contrast medium injected changes inflation stage. These stages are described below. |
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Stage 1 |
Balloon completely deflated |
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Stage 2 |
Distal portion partially inflated |
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Stage 3 |
Distal portion completely inflated |
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Stage 4 |
Hourglass shape |
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Stage 5 |
Full Inflation |
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The balloon diameter size is chosen on the basis of the
patient's weight, height, and body surface area, as well as the estimated
mitral valve area as determined during cardiac catheterization and/or
non-invasive preoperative studies. The catalog number indicates the maximum
expandable balloon diameter size.
Other factors to be considered in selecting the balloon diameter size
include:
Copyright 2007 Toray International America Inc. |
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