AN INTRACARDIAC CATHETER WITH INFLATABLE BALLOON FOR PRODUCING INCREASED VENOUS PRESSURES IN THE VENAE CAVAE OF MAN 1

Abstract

A double lumen intracardic catheter, equipped with a rubber balloon about the proximal opening, was used to produce venous pressures up to 250 mm. saline in the superior and inferior venae cavae of man. This procedure was performed on 49 patients without significant untoward effects. The balloon should be inflated slowly, for sudden, too rapid inflation to a marked degree may so obstruct venous return that syncope may result.