Catheterization of the Coronary Sinus, Right Heart, and Other Viscera With A Modified Venous Catheter

Abstract

To permit catheterization of the coronary sinus and other regions in the heart and visceral veins, the standard venous catheter of Cournand was modified by the addition of 2 small side eyes, with shallow grooves in the outer surface of the catheter leading forward from the side eyes to the usual terminal eye. The tendency for blood clot formation with consequent obstruction of the catheter lumen is avoided by thorough washing out with saline between samplings.