d. Flow Switch. This is a device attached at the end of the tubing that allows
the examiners to stop the back-flow of contrast once contrast injection has stopped.
e. Catheters. Fascial dilators are used to slowly expand the access site. There
is a wide range of sizes from 4.5 to 28 French. They should be readily available during
the procedure.
f. Sterile cups. The projected number needed of sterile cups should be
included.
g. Forceps. Sterile forceps are included in the type(s) and size(s) needed.
h. Scalpel. A sterile scalpel and blades are laid out in the size and number
required.
i.
Towels and Drapes. Sterile towels and drapes should be included.
j. Gloves and Gowns. A supply of sterile gloves and gowns will be needed.
k. Gauze Squares. Include sterile gauze squares in sizes likely to be needed.
l.
Tourniquet. Lay out a tourniquet, adhesive tape, and bandage.
m. Table. Be sure there is a table or instrument stand for arranging layouts.
3-8.
SPECIAL ANGIOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT
a. Needles. There are many styles of needles employed for angiography.
Some are listed and described below.
(1) The venipuncture needle has the sharpest bevel of the needles
employed. It is very satisfactory for percutaneous vein puncture; however, its
sharpness is a disadvantage with arterial puncture because of the danger of making too
deep an insertion.
(2) The arteriographic needle, such as the Seldinger style, has a protruding
obturator with a low profile bevel and central stylet. It is designed to be inserted when
assembled. Most modern arteriographic needles have a blunt tip with a sharp
protruding obturator and matching protruding blunt obturator. The advantage of this
needle is that the lumen of a vessel can be identified by the flow of arterial blood once
the central stylet is removed. The blunt obturator can then he reinserted, restricting the
flow of blood.
MD0959
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