Turn-back technique with use of a shaped microcatheter for superselective catheterization of arteries originating at acute angles.

The authors have developed a novel "turn-back" technique with use of a shaped microcatheter for superselective catheterization of arteries originating at acute angles. Herein this technique is described in clinical use for superselective catheterization of several arteries including the middle hepatic artery, right gastric artery, right inferior phrenic artery, and tracheal artery in six patients after failed catheterization by conventional techniques as a result of difficult geometry of the arteries. Superselective catheterization and intervention were successfully performed without complication in all cases. This turn-back technique is useful for superselective catheterization of arteries originating at acute angles.