Method and device for doppler-guided retrograde catheterization

Abstract

Abstract A method is claimed for the intravascular catheterization of a higher mammal without fluoroscopy, which comprises inserting into a peripheral blood vessel a steerable catheter (10) which has a Doppler ultrasound transceiver (18) at its tip, generating from signals produced by the ultrasound transceiver (18) a continuous indication of the direction of blood flow direction relative to the catheter tip, visually displaying the indication on a display monitor, and advancing the catheter (10) towards the heart in accordance with the indication of blood flow direction until the catheter is positioned at a desired location within the circulatory system of the mammal. A device for use in carrying out the inventive method is also claimed.

Inventors

• 👤 Leon J. Frazin

Bibliographic Details