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Myocardial perforation associated with the use of the Gensini ventriculography catheter
1Regional Cardiothoracic Centre, Victoria Hospital, Blackpool, Lancashire, UK.
International Journal of Cardiology
|February 1, 1996
Insights
Myocardial perforation can occur during left ventriculography using the Gensini catheter, even with careful technique. This study questions the catheter
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Interventional Cardiology
- Medical Device Safety
Background:
- Left ventriculography is a diagnostic procedure to assess left ventricular function and structure.
- Aortic valve disease can complicate cardiac catheterization procedures.
Observation:
- Two cases of myocardial perforation during left ventriculography are presented.
- The Gensini catheter was used in both cases.
- Perforation occurred despite meticulous catheter placement and test injections.
Findings:
- The Gensini catheter was associated with myocardial perforation in patients with aortic valve disease.
- Careful technique did not prevent perforation in these instances.
Implications:
- The safety of using the Gensini catheter for left ventriculography in patients with aortic valve disease requires further investigation.
- Alternative catheter systems or techniques may be considered to mitigate perforation risk.
- This highlights potential risks associated with specific cardiac catheterization tools in complex patient populations.
Abstract:
We describe myocardial perforation during left ventriculography using the Gensini catheter in two patients with aortic valve disease. In each case this occurred despite careful catheter positioning and prior 'test' injection of contrast agent. The use of the Gensini catheter for left ventriculography in this circumstance is seriously questioned.