When it comes to delivering drugs, catheters have been the go-to medical instrument for many years. These thin, flexible tubes are inserted into arteries, veins, or body cavities to deliver medication directly to the targeted site. Microcatheters, in particular, are designed to access tiny blood vessels or narrow ducts that cannot be reached with larger catheters. They are commonly used in interventional radiology, neurosurgery, and oncology to deliver cancer treatments or embolization agents.
However, not all drugs can be administered through catheters. Some drugs are insoluble in water or blood, making it difficult to deliver them to the targeted site. This is where DMSO compatible microcatheters come in. DMSO, or dimethyl sulfoxide, is a highly polar organic solvent that can dissolve a wide range of substances, including many drugs that are insoluble in water or blood. By using a DMSO compatible micro catheter, doctors can deliver such drugs directly to the targeted site, improving the efficacy and safety of the treatment.
DMSO compatible micro catheters are made of materials that are compatible with DMSO, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or polyethylene (PE). These materials are inert to DMSO and do not react with the drug being delivered, ensuring the drug's purity and stability. In addition, DMSO compatible microcatheters have a low extractable profile, meaning they do not leach any harmful substances into the drug solution.
One of the most significant advantages of DMSO compatible microcatheters is their versatility. They can be used to deliver a wide range of drugs, including chemotherapy agents, embolic agents, and contrast agents. They can also be used in various procedures, such as chemoembolization, radioembolization, and transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE). Moreover, they are compatible with both traditional catheterization techniques and newer minimally invasive techniques, such as detachable coil embolization and radiofrequency ablation.
Another advantage of DMSO compatible microcatheters is their safety. By delivering drugs directly to the targeted site, doctors can reduce the dosage required and minimize the risk of side effects. Furthermore, by using a DMSO compatible micro catheter, doctors can avoid the need for solvents or carriers, which may have their toxicity and adverse reactions.
In summary, a DMSO compatible microcatheter is a medical instrument designed to deliver drugs that are insoluble in water or blood. It is made of materials that are compatible with DMSO and has a low extractable profile to ensure drug purity and stability. It is versatile, safe, and can be used in various procedures and techniques. By using a DMSO compatible microcatheter, doctors can improve the efficacy and safety of drug delivery and provide better outcomes for patients.