Abstract
Objective: Four microcatheters were compared, and the properties of new microcatheters that are designed to be more shapable (Headway 17 and Excelsior XT 17) were evaluated.Case Presentations: After the tips of the catheters were shaped into one, two, and three spiral rounds about 4 mm in diameter, they were allowed to stand in physiologic saline at 37°C, and changes in the shape between immediately after and 10 min after shaping were compared. There was no difference in the shape among the catheters immediately after shaping, but the initial shape was better retained in Headway 17 and XT 17 after 10 min.Conclusion: Headway 17 and XT 17 had higher shape consistency than Excelsior SL 10 and Echelon 10, and better retained their original shape.
