A simple method of percutaneous cannulation of the pulmonary artery in small mammals

A simple technique for catheterization of the pulmonary artery in small mammals is described. An angled polypropylene introducer is used to allow easy placement of Swan--Ganz and triple lumen thermistor tipped catheters for haemodynamic evaluation. Hitherto such information has been unavailable because of difficulties in placement of catheters as well as an unacceptably high mortality rate. In an extensive experience with this new technique no instances of cardiac arrhythmia or of death have so far been encountered.