What medical tool is used to help position a catheter for procedures like angioplasty?

The guidewire is a critical tool used in various medical procedures, including angioplasty, to assist in the precise placement of a catheter. It is a thin, flexible wire that can be inserted into a blood vessel and maneuvered to the desired location. Once the guidewire is in place, other devices, such as a catheter, can be advanced over it, allowing for accurate positioning and reducing the risk of complications during the procedure.

Using a guidewire also enables healthcare providers to navigate through complex vascular anatomy, such as tortuous or narrowed vessels, facilitating the delivery of treatment devices like balloon catheters or stents. This capability is essential for achieving successful outcomes in procedures that require intervention in the cardiovascular system. The other tools mentioned—stents, cannulas, and balloon catheters—each serve specific functions, but it is the guidewire that provides the necessary guidance for positioning catheters during procedures like angioplasty.