Abdominal aorta catheterization via the left axillary artery

A simple technique is described for catheterization of the abdominal aorta via the left axillary artery. A commercially available pigtail catheter is used to direct the guide wire toward the descending aorta, and the contrast material may be injected through this catheter. This method works well, even in elderly patients with elongated, tortuous aortas.