The global coronary guidewires market size stood at USD 383.3 million in 2018 and is projected to reach USD 594.8 million by 2026, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period.
Coronary guidewires are essential tools used in a variety of cardiovascular procedures. These thin and flexible wires are inserted through the arterial system and into the heart to help guide other medical devices, such as stents and balloon catheters. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of coronary guidewires, how they work, and their importance in various medical procedures.
What are Coronary Guidewires?
Coronary guidewires are thin, flexible wires used in a variety of cardiovascular procedures. They are typically made of stainless steel or nitinol, and range in length from 150 to 300 cm. They vary in thickness, depending on the procedure and the size of the vessel in which they will be used.
How do Coronary Guidewires Work?
Coronary guidewires work by providing a pathway for other medical devices to reach the heart. Once inserted through the arterial system, the guidewire is manipulated by the physician to navigate through the vessels and reach the intended location in the heart. Once in place, the physician can then introduce other medical devices, such as stents or balloon catheters, over the guidewire to perform the necessary procedure.
Types of Coronary Guidewires
There are several types of coronary guidewires available, each designed to perform specific tasks. Some of the most common types of guidewires include:
- Standard Guidewires
Standard guidewires are the most commonly used type of coronary guidewire. They are typically made of stainless steel and are available in a variety of lengths and thicknesses. Standard guidewires are designed for use in a variety of procedures, including angioplasty, stenting, and atherectomy.
- Hydrophilic Guidewires
Hydrophilic guidewires are coated with a hydrophilic polymer that makes them more lubricious than standard guidewires. This coating allows the guidewire to navigate through the arteries more easily, reducing the risk of injury to the arterial walls. Hydrophilic guidewires are particularly useful in tortuous vessels or vessels with heavy calcification.
- Polymer-Jacketed Guidewires
Polymer-jacketed guidewires are coated with a polymer jacket that provides a smooth surface for easy navigation through the arterial system. This type of guidewire is particularly useful in tortuous vessels, where the risk of injury to the arterial walls is higher.
- Shapeable Guidewires
Shapeable guidewires are designed to be bent and shaped by the physician to navigate through the arterial system. This type of guidewire is particularly useful in complex procedures where a standard guidewire may not be able to navigate through the tortuous vessels.
- Chronic Total Occlusion Guidewires
Chronic total occlusion (CTO) guidewires are designed for use in procedures where the artery is completely blocked. These guidewires are typically thicker and more robust than standard guidewires, allowing them to penetrate through the occlusion and provide a pathway for other medical devices.
Importance of Coronary Guidewires
Coronary guidewires are essential tools used in a variety of cardiovascular procedures. Without guidewires, it would be difficult, if not impossible, to navigate through the arterial system and reach the intended location in the heart. The use of guidewires has greatly improved the safety and efficacy of cardiovascular procedures, reducing the risk of injury to the arterial walls and improving patient outcomes.
