[Vascular recanalization using an electric thermal cauterizing catheter--in vitro experiences with a new catheter...

Recanalisation of arteriosclerotic occlusions by means of laser angioplasty, Kensey catheter and the "hot tip" catheter is undergoing early, successful clinical trials. The thermo-cautery catheter described in this paper uses the well known technique of cutting with high frequency electric currents in order to achieve vascular recanalisation. Seven attempts were made to recanalise occlusions at post mortem; four were successful, but perforation occurred in three. Histologically we found a narrow rim of carbonisation of tissues surrounded by a zone of homogenisation and a transitional zone.