A sheath( thin tube) is then placed in the artery, which provides continual access to the artery. Using X-ray visualization and high-speed filming techniques that provide a continuous view of the normal blood vessels and aneurysm, the doctor inserts a catheter, led by a guide wire, and advances it to the site of the aneurysm. Through the catheter, a smaller microcatheter is advanced into the aneurysm opening and the coil system is introduced.
The coil system consists of different materials, most commonly platinum and sometimes other gel-like and suture-like materials. The coils are soft and pliable, and are available in several sizes and shapes to fit correctly inside an aneurysm.
While inside the catheter, the coil is straight, but when the coil exits the catheter, it takes on a spiral shape, conforming to the shape of the aneurysm. The coil( or coils, as sometimes more than one is needed) prevents blood from flowing into the aneurysm. This causes the blood inside the aneurysm to clot, which destroys the aneurysm.
Coil
Used with the permission of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. © All rights reserved.
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