New technique for coronary sinus cannulation using a fiberoptic stylet

Fluoroscopy, echocardiography, blind digital approach, and direct visual insertion have been used for retrograde cannulation of the coronary sinus. We cannulate the coronary sinus by transillumination using a standard flexible retroplegia cannula with a reusable fiberoptic stylet designed by our open heart program. An attachable light source illuminates the tip, which is guided into the coronary sinus ostium. We have used the technique in 16 patients who could not be cannulated with the blind digital method.