Complex or branch vessel anatomy can make consistent catheter engagement difficult, particularly when the target vessel takes off at an unfavorable angle. INVAMED's SteerCATH steerable catheter addresses this challenge with a deflectable distal tip, giving operators direct control over catheter curvature without necessarily requiring a full device exchange.
What Is the SteerCATH Steerable Catheter?
SteerCATH is a steerable support catheter engineered with a deflectable tip, designed to support access to complex or branch vessels during coronary and peripheral interventions. Unlike fixed-shape catheters, which rely on a pre-formed curve to engage a target vessel, SteerCATH's tip can be actively adjusted by the operator during the procedure, offering additional adaptability when anatomy does not match a standard catheter shape.
Deflectable-Tip Function
The defining feature of SteerCATH is its deflectable distal segment, which allows the operator to steer and position the catheter tip with precision. This capability is intended to help clinicians navigate toward a target vessel origin and make fine adjustments in real time, potentially reducing the number of catheter exchanges needed to achieve stable engagement compared to relying solely on differently pre-shaped catheters.
Sizing and Length Options
SteerCATH is available across a broad range of specifications to support varied procedural needs:
- French size range: 4F to 14F, spanning diagnostic through larger interventional applications
- Usable length: 45 cm, 55 cm, or 90 cm, accommodating both shorter and longer anatomical distances
This range allows SteerCATH to be applied across a spectrum of procedures, from smaller-profile diagnostic and support applications to larger interventional cases requiring greater device compatibility.
Clinical Applications
SteerCATH is intended to support complex or branch vessel access during coronary and peripheral vascular interventions, particularly in cases where anatomical variability makes fixed-shape catheter engagement more challenging. As with all catheter systems, the decision to use a steerable catheter, and the specific size and configuration selected, is determined by the treating physician based on the individual patient's anatomy and the goals of the procedure. SteerCATH is intended for use by trained healthcare professionals.
Why Steerability Matters in Practice
Fixed-shape catheters require the operator to select from a set of standardized curves and, if the selected shape does not adequately engage the target vessel, to exchange the catheter for a different shape. A steerable catheter is designed to reduce this iterative exchange process by allowing tip adjustment within a single device, which may support procedural efficiency in cases involving unusual vessel origins or branch points.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a steerable catheter differ from a pre-shaped catheter?
A pre-shaped catheter has a fixed curve determined during manufacturing, while a steerable catheter like SteerCATH allows the operator to actively adjust the tip's deflection during the procedure to adapt to the anatomy encountered.
What types of procedures use steerable catheters?
Steerable catheters are generally used in coronary and peripheral interventions where branch vessel access or complex anatomy makes fixed-shape catheter engagement more difficult.
Does the wide French size range mean SteerCATH is used for both diagnostic and interventional purposes?
The available 4F to 14F range allows the platform to support a variety of procedural needs; the specific application and sizing used for a given case is determined by the treating physician based on clinical requirements.
Related INVAMED Resources
- Comprehensive Catheter & Guidewire Systems
- Coronary Artery Disease & Cardiac Interventions
- Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation. It is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Product indications, availability, and regulatory status vary by country. Always refer to the official Instructions for Use (IFU) and consult a licensed physician for guidance specific to your situation. INVAMED devices are intended for use by trained healthcare professionals.