Some people use them every day in their work, others have had to learn about them to care for a loved one, and some are still unfamiliar with them but want to learn more. This guide on arterial accesses is designed to gather the general information, as comprehensive as possible, to give those who may need it the basic tools to understand the nature, function, and Italian availability of arterial and venous catheters and, more generally, of arterial access medical devices.
Arterial and venous accesses: what is the difference?
When talking about accesses, we mean those medical devices with which one connects the skin with the vascular area (venous or arterial) on which one wants to operate. In this way, it is possible to infuse substances, draw blood or perform diagnostic tests.
Arterial accesses differ from venous accesses primarily because venous accesses involve intra-vascular devices, such as central and peripheral venous catheters, which are inserted into peripheral or central veins and can extend to the cardiac level. In contrast, arterial accesses entail inserting the catheter into a palpable arterial vessel, such as the radial, femoral, axillary, or brachial artery.
When is arterial catheterization used?
The practice of arterial access is primarily used in patients undergoing intensive care or major surgery. This is because arterial access enables continuous monitoring of blood pressure, facilitates arterial blood sampling for blood gas tests, and assists healthcare providers in placing other medical devices for hemodynamic monitoring of critically ill patients.
Given that both arterial and venous access procedures carry a risk, albeit limited, of complications, having appropriate state-of-the-art medical devices can significantly impact patient experience by minimizing perceived pain, improving ease of catheter use, and enhancing safety.
Types of Delta Med Arterial Accesses
Arterial accesses are crucial for blood pressure monitoring and blood gas analysis. Among the various options available, Delta Med provides innovative solutions for safe and effective arterial access. These solutions are designed to ensure accurate pressure wave detection and incorporate technologies that enable atraumatic punctures of peripheral arteries.
The Delta range includes several options, each equipped with specific features tailored to address distinct clinical requirements. Let’s look at them.
Delta Arterial Cannula
These arterial accesses are crafted from Polyurethane, ensuring precise detection
of pressure waves during monitoring. Equipped with advanced technology, they facilitate atraumatic punctures of peripheral arteries. Primarily utilized for blood pressure measurement and hemogasanalysis using the Seldinger technique, they are specifically engineered for insertion into the radial, brachial, femoral, and pendulous arteries. The comprehensive kit includes essential components such as a single-lumen catheter, guide wire, and introducer needle, ensuring efficiency and completeness during procedures.
Delta Arterial Cath
These arterial accesses are specifically designed for insertion into peripheral arteries to facilitate blood gas estimation and blood pressure monitoring. The needle is equipped with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental puncture and is ergonomically designed with a handle that facilitates artery insertion. Additionally, it includes a viewing chamber for immediate and efficient visualization of blood return during placement, reducing the risk of arterial perforation.
Delta long Cannula
These arterial accesses serve a dual purpose, providing both venous and arterial access. They are available in two versions: PV1S and PV2S.
The PV1S variant is a radiopaque open-tip catheter crafted from polyurethane, available in single-lumen 3FR or 4FR options with three different lengths: 6 cm, 8 cm, and 10 cm. Engineered to endure high pressures (up to 330 PSI ml/sec), it is equipped with a safety echogenic needle (18G or 20G x 7 cm) for enhanced safety during insertion. This versatile catheter is suitable for both venous and arterial access procedures. Additionally, it features a stainless steel wire-guide (0.018″/0.032” x 30 cm) with markers to aid in precise placement.
The PV2S variant shares similarities with the PV1S model. It also features an open-tip, radiopaque polyurethane catheter, available in single-lumen 3FR or 4FR sizes with lengths of 6 cm, 8 cm, and 10 cm. Engineered to withstand high pressures (up to 330 PSI ml/sec), it comes with a safety echogenic needle (18G or 20G x 7 cm) and a stainless steel wire-guide (0.018″/0.032” x 30 cm) with markers. However, there are some distinctions from the PV1S model. The PV2S version includes a 325 PSI needleless valve with a 10 cm extension line, which is rated for power injection up to 300 PSI. Additionally, it features a dressing without the need for sutures and a protective patch. Like the PV1S, the PV2S is suitable for both venous and arterial access procedures.
The choice of arterial access type depends on the specific needs of the patient and clinician. With Delta Med, we offer solutions that always prefer the patient’s well-being and ease of use by the practitioner.