Which catheter is commonly used in abdominal angiography?

The pigtail catheter is commonly used in abdominal angiography due to its unique design and functionality. The curved, coiled shape of the pigtail allows it to easily navigate through the vascular system and reach specific arteries, such as the renal or mesenteric arteries, which are often targets in abdominal imaging studies.

This catheter is particularly beneficial because it can help facilitate the contrast injection required for imaging during angiography, providing clear and detailed visualization of blood vessels and organ perfusion. The design also minimizes the risk of vessel trauma, enhancing patient safety during the procedure.

In contrast, other types of catheters, such as the balloon catheter, are typically used for different interventions, like occlusions or stent placements, while sheath catheters serve as access points but may not provide the specific imaging advantages seen with pigtail catheters. Judkins catheters are more commonly associated with coronary angiography rather than abdominal procedures.

Therefore, the pigtail catheter’s ability to maneuver through complex vascular anatomy and provide effective contrast delivery makes it the most suitable choice for abdominal angiography.