OEM/ODM Medical Tubing Manufacturers and Medical Tubing Supplier

Medical polyimide tubing (PI tubing) is a high-performance material with broad application prospects in the medical field due to its unique physical and chemical properties. It features high toughness, high-temperature resistance, wear resistance, oxidation resistance, and radiation resistance, making it suitable for a wide range of medical devices and instruments. PI tubing's excellent electrical insulation properties, torque transmission capabilities, high-temperature resistance, ultra-smooth surface and transparency, flexibility and kink resistance, as well as excellent push and pull properties, make it a key component of high-tech products. The main performance characteristics of medical polyimide tubing (PI tubing) include: Excellent high-temperature resistance: Polyimide tubing can remain stable at extremely high temperatures, with long-term operating temperatures ranging from -200 to 300°C, and some materials can maintain performance above 400°C. Good electrical insulation properties: PI tubing has excellent electrical insulation properties, with a dielectric constant of approximately 3.4 and a dielectric strength of at least 120 kV/mm. In addition, its dielectric strength can reach 4000 V/.001", making it suitable for medical devices requiring high insulation. High Mechanical Strength and Toughness: PI tubing has high tensile strength (minimum 20,000 PSI) and excellent fatigue resistance, making it suitable for medical devices that must withstand high pressure and tension. Ultra-Smooth Surface: The smooth inner surface of PI tubing is less susceptible to adhesion, making it suitable for liquid transport and preventing clogging. Biocompatibility: PI tubing has excellent biocompatibility and complies with ISO 10993 and USP. Class VI biocompatibility requirements make it suitable for medical devices that come into direct contact with the human body. Chemical Resistance: PI tubing exhibits excellent corrosion resistance to a wide range of chemicals and is suitable for disinfectants and chemicals commonly used in medical environments. Low Friction: PI tubing's low coefficient of friction helps reduce resistance during operation, improving device flexibility and operational efficiency. Lightweight and Flexible: PI tubing is lightweight, flexible, and kink-resistant, making it suitable for medical devices requiring high flexibility. Processability: PI tubing is easy to cut, bend, and connect, facilitating the manufacture and installation of medical devices. Radiation Resistance: PI tubing exhibits excellent radiation resistance and is suitable for applications requiring high radiation resistance. Medical applications. What does biocompatibility of PI tubing mean? How is biocompatibility achieved? The biocompatibility of PI tubing refers to its ability to elicit an appropriate and safe host response when in contact with human tissue or body fluids. Specifically, this means that the PI material does not cause adverse reactions such as toxicity, irritation, inflammation, allergy, coagulation, or hemolysis in medical applications, while also interacting well with biological systems, thus supporting its long-term use in medical devices. Biocompatibility assessment involves multiple aspects, including in vitro and in vivo testing. In vitro testing typically includes cytotoxicity testing, blood compatibility testing (such as anticoagulant and antihemolytic properties), and immune response testing. For example, studies of the This study demonstrates that PI has no cytotoxic effects on mouse fibroblasts, human retinal pigment epithelial cells, and human brain microvascular endothelial cells. Furthermore, PI materials exhibit excellent blood compatibility, meaning they do not cause hemolysis or coagulation. In vivo experiments further validate the biological responses of PI materials in living environments. For example, some commercial PI materials have undergone in vivo studies to confirm their compatibility with living organisms. These studies typically involve testing for acute systemic toxicity, irritation, pyrogenicity, sensitization, immune system response, and long-term implantation. Biocompatibility depends not only on the chemical properties of the material itself but also on a variety of factors, including its physical properties, processing techniques, surface treatment, and degradation products in the body. Impact. For example, the simplified synthesis and manufacturing process of poly(Iotaly Polymer) materials reduces the number of leachable sources, thereby improving their biocompatibility. Furthermore, their chemical resistance and tolerance to routine sterilization ensure their widespread application in the medical field. Biocompatibility assessments typically adhere to the requirements of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 10993 and the national standard GB/T 16886. These standards cover the entire material lifecycle, from design to market approval, and emphasize the interaction between the material and the biological framework. When assessing biocompatibility, factors such as the material's shape, size, surface roughness, residual toxic low-molecular substances, processing contamination, and in vivo degradation products need to be considered.

In modern medicine, minimally invasive surgery and interventional therapy have become important means of diagnosis and treatment of many diseases. In order to improve the accuracy and safety of surgery, medical equipment is also constantly innovating. Among them, the steerable sheath, as a new type of interventional tool, is gradually changing the operation mode of traditional surgery due to its unique design and excellent performance. What is a steerable sheath?A steerable sheath is a medical device with adjustable distal bend. Its core feature is that the angle of the sheath end can be adjusted in vitro, so that it can point to a precise position in the patient's body to adapt to different anatomical structures. This design allows doctors to more flexibly guide other instruments into the target area during surgery without relying on complex guidewires or multiple attempts. Compared with traditional sheaths, the biggest advantage of steerable sheaths is their adjustability and controllability. It is usually composed of multiple layers of materials, including an outer braided structure, a middle reinforcing rib, and an inner layer of low friction coefficient materials (such as PTFE) to ensure good anti-kinking, pushing performance and tissue compatibility during operation. What is the difference between a sheath and a catheter?Before discussing the steerable sheath, it is necessary to understand the difference between it and the catheter in order to better understand its positioning and function in medical treatment. Sheath is mainly used to establish and maintain a channel so that other instruments (such as guidewires, catheters, biopsy needles, etc.) can enter the body smoothly. Sheaths are usually thicker than catheters, have a certain hardness and stability, and can protect the blood vessel wall or cavity from damage. In interventional surgery, sheaths are often used to guide the catheter into the target site and help the catheter withdraw after the operation is completed to avoid additional damage to the tissue. Catheters are mainly used to transport liquids, gases or drugs, such as contrast agents, blood, drugs or nutrient solutions. Catheters are usually slender, soft and easy to bend, suitable for occasions requiring delicate operations, such as cardiac catheters, infusion catheters, etc. Therefore, the sheath is the "shell" or "channel" of the catheter, and the catheter is the "working tool" that enters the body through the sheath. The emergence of steerable sheaths is precisely to provide more stable and precise guidance support during catheter operation. How does a steerable sheath work?The working principle of a steerable sheath is based on the design of traction wire and reinforcement ribs. Its core structure includes: Traction wire: located inside the sheath, controlled by the sliding device on the handle, the bending direction and angle of the end of the sheath can be adjusted. Reinforcement rib: set inside the sheath to locate the bending direction of the tube body, so that the sheath can adaptively adjust the bending to conform to the complex vascular system of the human body. Braided structure: enhances the torsion control ability of the sheath to prevent kinking during operation, while improving its torsion resistance and pushing performance. Round tip: reduces damage to tissues and is suitable for operations on sensitive parts such as blood vessels and nerves. PTFE inner layer: reduces the friction coefficient, allowing other instruments (such as guide wires and catheters) to pass easily and improve the smoothness of operation. In actual operation, the doctor can control the traction wire through the handle to bend the end of the sheath to the desired angle, thereby guiding the catheter into the target area. This design not only improves the accuracy of the operation, but also reduces the dependence on X-rays and reduces the risk of surgery. Due to its high precision and good maneuverability, steerable sheaths have been widely used in many medical fields, including: Neurointervention: used for cerebral angiography, stent implantation, aneurysm embolization and other surgeries. Cardiac intervention: used for coronary angioplasty, heart valve replacement and other surgeries. Vascular intervention: used for peripheral angioplasty, thrombus removal, filter implantation and other surgeries. Tumor intervention: used for tumor embolization, chemotherapy drug infusion and other surgeries. In these surgeries, steerable sheaths can help doctors locate and operate more accurately, reduce operation time, improve success rate, and reduce the incidence of complications. As an innovative medical device, steerable sheaths are gradually changing the operation mode of traditional interventional surgery. It not only improves the accuracy and safety of the operation, but also provides doctors with a more flexible and controllable operating environment. With the continuous advancement of technology, steerable sheaths are expected to play an important role in more fields and bring better medical services to patients.

The main purpose of the Balloon Tubing is to serve as the core component of the balloon dilatation catheter (referred to as the balloon), which is used for a variety of interventional treatments in the medical field. Specifically, the Balloon Tubing plays an important role in the following aspects: Angioplasty: The Balloon Tubing is widely used in angioplasty, especially in percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). By delivering the balloon into the narrowed blood vessels or coronary arteries, injecting liquid to expand the balloon, the blood vessels are expanded and blood flow is restored. Stent delivery and expansion: In addition to the traditional vascular expansion function, the Balloon Tubing is also used for the delivery and expansion of drug-eluting stents. Before the stent is implanted, the balloon can be pre-expanded, and after the stent is implanted, the balloon can also be used for precise shaping to ensure the stability and effectiveness of the stent. Endoscopic examination and treatment: During endoscopic examination, the Balloon Tubing can be used to assist in diagnosis and treatment. For example, during gastroscopy, the doctor may use a balloon to expand the narrow part of the esophagus to better observe the lesion. In addition, the balloon can also be used to remove foreign bodies or perform hemostasis operations. Drug delivery: Balloon catheters also have important applications in drug delivery catheters. The balloon surface of this catheter has micropores, through which drugs can be released at the site of the disease, thereby reducing the amount of medication and avoiding damage to the normal body. Blocking blood vessels: Blocking balloon catheters are a special medical device that is mainly used for the diagnosis and treatment of vascular diseases. The balloon is delivered to the lesion through the catheter, and the expansion and contraction of the balloon is controlled by inflation and deflation to achieve temporary or permanent blockage of the blood vessels. Other interventional treatments: Balloon catheters are also widely used in cardiac catheterization, vascular interventional treatment, biliary drainage and other fields. Its design enables it to move flexibly within the blood vessel and expand or contract when needed to achieve the purpose of treatment. What are the advantages of the mechanical properties of balloon catheters?The mechanical properties of balloon catheters have the following advantages: High tensile strength and elasticity: The ability of balloon catheters to withstand internal pressure, adapt to the complex structure of blood vessels, and maintain their shape during inflation and deflation. Excellent burst pressure resistance: The Balloon Tubing material can withstand high internal pressure without rupture, which is critical for procedures that require expansion to compress or remove body obstructions. Good flexibility and kink resistance: These properties ensure that the balloon is safely and accurately positioned in the vascular system, avoiding damage to the vessel wall, while maintaining its shape during inflation and deflation. High compliance and diameter control: Compliance allows the balloon to adapt to changes in the size of the blood vessel, while diameter control ensures that the balloon does not over-expand after inflation, thereby avoiding damage to the blood vessel. Fatigue resistance and durability: The Balloon Tubing remains stable during repeated inflation and deflation cycles, avoiding material degradation or crack formation, thereby ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the procedure. High dimensional accuracy and concentricity: The minimum outer diameter of the Balloon Tubing can reach 0.254 mm, the inner and outer diameter tolerance is ±0.0127 mm, and the concentricity exceeds 95%, ensuring its stability and reliability in use. High burst and fatigue strength: The Balloon Tubing has extremely high resistance to burst pressure and fatigue strength, allowing it to work for a long time in a high-pressure environment without failure. Good surface smoothness and transparency: The Balloon Tubing has smooth inner and outer surfaces and high transparency, which helps reduce friction and facilitates observation. High temperature resistance: The Balloon Tubing can maintain excellent mechanical properties in a high temperature environment and is suitable for a variety of medical devices. Multi-layer structure design: The Balloon Tubing can adopt a double-layer or triple-layer structure to improve its pressure resistance and fatigue resistance. What are the advantages of the mechanical properties of the Balloon Tubing? High tensile strength and elasticity: The ability of the Balloon Tubing to withstand internal pressure, adapt to the complex structure of blood vessels, and maintain its shape during inflation and deflation. Excellent burst pressure resistance: The Balloon Tubing material can withstand high internal pressure without rupture, which is critical for procedures that require expansion to compress or remove body obstructions. Good flexibility and kink resistance: These properties ensure that the balloon is safely and accurately positioned in the vascular system, avoiding damage to the vessel wall, while maintaining its shape during inflation and deflation. High compliance and diameter control: Compliance enables the balloon to adapt to the size changes of the blood vessels, while diameter control ensures that the balloon does not over-expand after inflation, thereby avoiding damage to the blood vessels. Fatigue resistance and durability: The Balloon Tubing remains stable during repeated inflation and deflation cycles, avoiding material degradation or crack formation, thereby ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the operation. High dimensional accuracy and concentricity: The minimum outer diameter of the Balloon Tubing can reach 0.254 mm, the inner and outer diameter tolerance is ±0.0127 mm, and the concentricity exceeds 95%, ensuring its stability and reliability in use. High bursting strength and fatigue strength: The Balloon Tubing has extremely high bursting pressure resistance and fatigue strength, enabling it to work for a long time without failure in a high-pressure environment. Good surface smoothness and transparency: The Balloon Tubing has smooth inner and outer surfaces and high transparency, which helps to reduce friction and facilitate observation. High temperature resistance: The Balloon Tubing can maintain excellent mechanical properties in a high temperature environment and is suitable for a variety of medical devices. Multi-layer structure design: The Balloon Tubing can adopt a double-layer or triple-layer structure to improve its pressure resistance and fatigue resistance.

TPU Radiopaque Tubing are high-performance medical imaging equipment components. With their unique material properties, they have significant advantages in the field of medical imaging and can effectively improve diagnostic accuracy. TPU materials have excellent signal conversion capabilities and mechanical stability, can accurately capture X-ray signals, reduce image noise, and provide clearer and more detailed images. In examinations such as CT and DSA (digital subtraction angiography), high-resolution imaging helps to show tiny vascular lesions, early tumors or subtle bone injuries, reducing the risk of missed diagnosis. TPU tubes have high X-ray absorption and conversion efficiency, and can obtain image quality equivalent to traditional high doses at lower radiation doses, reducing radiation exposure for patients and medical staff. This is especially important for children, pregnant women and patients who need frequent follow-up examinations (such as tumor patients), reducing the potential health risks caused by long-term radiation accumulation. TPU materials have low density and are lighter than metal tubes, making it easier to flexibly adjust their positions in operating rooms, ICUs or mobile X-ray equipment. Lightweight design can reduce the overall weight of the equipment, extend the service life of the robot arm or bracket, and reduce maintenance requirements. TPU material has excellent wear resistance and anti-aging properties, can withstand frequent use, and reduce equipment downtime or replacement costs caused by tube damage. It can still maintain stable performance in high-temperature, humid or chemical disinfection environments, suitable for high-intensity medical environments. How to help doctors improve diagnostic accuracy? 1. Clearer images, reduce misdiagnosis/missed diagnosis High-contrast imaging: The high resolution of TPU tubes can clearly show vascular stenosis, tiny calcification foci, early tumors, etc., helping doctors to find lesions that may be missed by traditional imaging. Reduce artifact interference: The uniformity and stability of TPU materials can reduce image artifacts (such as metal artifacts) and improve diagnostic reliability, which is especially important in orthopedics, cardiovascular intervention and other fields. 2. Low-dose imaging, suitable for fine inspection Dynamic imaging optimization: In DSA or fluoroscopic guided surgery, low-dose mode can be continuously shot for a long time, and doctors can observe blood flow dynamics or catheter position more accurately, improving the success rate of surgery. Reduce repeated scans: High-quality imaging obtains sufficient diagnostic information at one time, avoids repeated exposure due to image blur, and improves inspection efficiency. 3. Adapt to complex clinical scenarios Interventional surgery support: In interventional treatments such as angiography and tumor embolization, the lightweight and high sensitivity of TPU tubes help real-time and accurate imaging, assisting doctors in completing delicate operations. Mobile medical applications: The lightweight design makes it suitable for bedside X-rays, emergency or field medical scenarios, ensuring fast and high-quality imaging diagnosis. 4. Long-term stability to ensure equipment reliability Reduce equipment failures: Durability reduces maintenance frequency, ensures long-term stable operation of imaging equipment, and avoids diagnostic delays caused by tube problems. Economical and efficient: Long life and low maintenance costs allow medical institutions to focus more on improving diagnostic technology rather than frequently replacing consumables.

The main purpose of guide catheters is to provide access for interventional treatment or surgery, and to guide other instruments or devices into specific locations inside the human body for diagnosis, treatment or sampling. Specifically, guide catheters can be used for: 1. Cardiovascular fieldIn the cardiovascular field, guide catheters are the core tools for coronary artery intervention. They can guide devices such as stents and balloons into the site of coronary artery lesions to achieve angioplasty or stent implantation. In addition, guide catheters are also used for cardiac catheterization to help doctors evaluate cardiac function and monitor hemodynamics. 2. NeurologyIn neurology, guide catheters are widely used in cerebrovascular interventional treatment, such as cerebral aneurysm embolization and interventional treatment of cerebral vascular stenosis. Its soft material and good maneuverability enable it to adapt to the complex anatomical structure of cerebral blood vessels, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of treatment. 3. OncologyIn oncology, guide catheters can be used for interventional treatment of tumors, such as percutaneous puncture biopsy, radioactive particle implantation, and chemotherapy drug infusion. The catheter is used to precisely deliver drugs or therapeutic devices to the tumor site, improving the targeting and efficacy of treatment. 4. Urinary systemIn the urinary system, guide catheters are used for urography, renal artery interventional therapy, etc. For example, renal artery stents are implanted through a catheter to treat renal artery stenosis. 5. Digestive systemIn the digestive system, guide catheters can be used for gastrointestinal endoscopy, interventional therapy for esophageal cancer, etc. For example, dilation therapy for esophageal stenosis is performed through a catheter, or an endoscope is guided into the gastrointestinal tract for biopsy or treatment. 6. Respiratory systemIn the respiratory system, guide catheters are used for airway stent implantation and pulmonary interventional therapy. For example, metal or plastic stents are placed into the airway through a catheter to maintain airway patency and treat central tracheal stenosis. 7. HemodialysisIn hemodialysis, guide catheters are used to establish vascular access to provide patients with long-term dialysis treatment. Their good biocompatibility and low friction properties help reduce the risk of thrombosis and infection. 8. Trauma First AidIn trauma first aid, guide catheters can be used for vascular interventional treatment of trauma patients, such as temporary establishment of vascular access, hemostasis or infusion. How does the multi-level hardness design improve the flexibility of the catheter?The multi-level hardness design improves the flexibility of the catheter while maintaining the overall structural strength by using materials of different hardness at different parts of the catheter. Specifically, this design allows the catheter to have a higher hardness at the proximal end (the end close to the operator) for easy advancement and manipulation, and a lower hardness at the distal end (the end close to the patient) to enhance its flexibility so that it can better adapt to complex or tortuous vascular paths. For example, when high pushability and hardness are required, a thicker outer layer and a higher durometer material can be selected; when better anti-kinking performance is required, a lower durometer material and a smaller lumen size would be more appropriate. This design trade-off enables the catheter to perform optimally at different stages of operation, thereby improving the success rate and safety of the operation. In addition, the multi-segment hardness design can also optimize the proximal rigidity and distal flexibility of the catheter, so that it can provide strong pushing force and achieve precise conduction when twisting, which is important for navigation in complex paths. What role does the braided structure play in the catheter? The braided structure plays a vital role in the catheter. It not only improves the mechanical properties of the catheter, but also enhances its maneuverability and stability in complex vascular environments. Specifically, the braided structure forms a shell with high support and flexibility through the staggered arrangement of multiple wires, thereby providing good anti-kink and pushing force during the advancement of the catheter. This structural design enables the catheter to maintain its shape in the blood vessel while adapting to the bending and twisting of the blood vessel and reducing damage to the blood vessel wall. In the guide catheter, the braided structure is usually made of metal wire, which has good biocompatibility and strength, and can ensure the stability and safety of the catheter when it is operated in the body. In addition, the braided structure can also achieve a balance between flexibility and pushing through different braiding patterns, so that the catheter can be flexibly bent when needed, and provide sufficient support when it needs to be pushed. In clinical applications, braided catheters are widely used in interventional treatments such as angiography, stent implantation, and tumor embolization. For example, under the guidance of DSA (digital subtraction angiography), doctors can use catheters to introduce specially made imported instruments into the human body to accurately diagnose and treat vascular malformations or tumors. Braided catheters perform well in these operations, providing clear navigation paths and stable control performance. What are the commonly used materials for guide catheters?The commonly used materials for guide catheters mainly include the following, and each material plays a different role in the performance and application of the catheter: Polyethylene (PE): Polyethylene is a commonly used catheter material with good strength, softness and elasticity, and a low friction coefficient. It is widely used in most vascular catheters. Its advantages are easy processing and pre-forming, and good biocompatibility. Polyurethane (PU): Polyurethane is a softer material with good flexibility and lubricity, but its elastic memory is poor, the probability of thrombosis is high, and systemic heparinization is required when used. It is widely used in catheters that require good bending performance or high elasticity. Silicone: Silicone rubber is selected for its excellent biocompatibility and high flexibility, and is particularly suitable for catheters that require good bending performance or high elasticity, such as endotracheal intubation. Polyester: Polyester is often used in catheters that require strong stiffness and pressure resistance, such as certain types of intravascular stent catheters. Nylon: Nylon has good biocompatibility and strength and is commonly used in applications such as arterial catheters. Metal materials: such as stainless steel, nickel-titanium alloy, etc., provide additional mechanical strength and are suitable for catheters in special surgical operations. Nickel-titanium alloy is softer than stainless steel, has better bendability and adaptability, and is therefore more commonly used in medical applications that require high flexibility. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE): PTFE is suitable for manufacturing expanded tubes, thin-walled catheters and some standard vascular catheters due to its large physical strength and low friction coefficient. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): PVC is also a commonly used catheter material with good processing properties and certain flexibility, suitable for a variety of catheter applications. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK): Polyetheretherketone is a high-performance thermoplastic with excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility, suitable for catheters in special surgical operations. Polyamide (PA): Polyamide has good mechanical properties and biocompatibility, suitable for catheters that require high strength and corrosion resistance. The choice of these materials depends on the specific application requirements of the catheter, such as the complexity of the operation, the specific conditions of the patient, and the doctor's operating habits. By properly selecting materials, it is possible to ensure that the catheter has good performance and safety during use. How does the maneuverability and stability of the guide catheter improve surgical efficiency? The maneuverability and stability of the guide catheter are key factors in improving surgical efficiency. By optimizing the design and material selection of the catheter, its maneuverability and stability in complex surgeries can be significantly improved, thereby shortening the operation time, reducing complications, and increasing the success rate of treatment. 1. Multi-level hardness designThe proximal end of the catheter usually uses harder materials to provide good pushing force and maneuverability, while the distal end uses softer materials to enhance its flexibility so that it can better adapt to the bending and twisting of the blood vessels. This multi-level hardness design can ensure that the catheter can provide sufficient support during the advancement process and reduce damage to the blood vessel wall, thereby improving the accuracy and safety of the operation. 2. Braided structureThe braided structure is the key to improving the maneuverability and stability of the catheter. Through the staggered arrangement of metal wires, the catheter can maintain its shape during the advancement process while adapting to the bending and twisting of the blood vessel. This structure not only improves the catheter's anti-kink and pushing force, but also enhances its maneuverability in complex vascular environments. 3. Low-friction inner layerThe inner layer of the catheter usually uses low-friction materials to reduce the friction resistance of the guidewire or high-viscosity fluid, thereby improving the passability and operability of the catheter. This design can ensure that the catheter is smoother during the advancement process, reduce operational resistance, and improve surgical efficiency. 4. Shape memory materialShape memory material plays an important role in catheter design. They can return to a preset shape under certain conditions, thereby improving the maneuverability and stability of the catheter. The use of this material can ensure that the catheter maintains good maneuverability and stability in complex operations and reduce the adjustment time during the operation. 5. Hydrophilic coatingThe hydrophilic coating can improve the lubricity of the catheter and reduce the friction during insertion, thereby improving the maneuverability and stability of the catheter. This coating can ensure that the catheter is smoother during advancement, reduce operational resistance, and improve surgical efficiency. 6. Visual designThe head of the catheter is usually designed with a developing segment to help doctors accurately position it under image guidance. This design can improve the maneuverability and stability of the catheter, reduce misoperation during surgery, and improve the success rate of the operation. 7. Real-time imaging guidanceIn some operations, such as catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation, real-time imaging technology (such as intracardiac echocardiography ICE) can provide real-time imaging during the operation, helping doctors to more accurately position the catheter and improve the maneuverability and safety of the operation. This technology can reduce the adjustment time of the catheter and improve the efficiency of the operation. 8. Optimize design parametersBy optimizing the design parameters of the catheter (such as the cross-sectional area of ​​the catheter, the elastic modulus of the material, and the tensile strength), the pushability and torsionability of the catheter can be improved, thereby improving its operability and stability in complex surgeries. This optimized design can ensure that the catheter is more stable during advancement, reduce the adjustment time during surgery, and improve surgical efficiency. How do the length and outer diameter of the guide catheter affect its usage scenario?The length and outer diameter of the guide catheter are important factors affecting its usage scenario, which directly determine the applicability and operability of the catheter in different interventional treatments. 1. The influence of catheter lengthThe length of the catheter is usually between 65 cm and 100 cm, and the specific choice depends on the type of surgery and the site of operation. For example, when performing cerebrovascular interventional treatment, a longer catheter is usually required to smoothly guide the interventional device to the target vessel. When performing renal angiography or renal artery stent implantation, a 65 cm long catheter is more suitable. In addition, for complex lesions that need to penetrate into distal vessels, such as posterior circulation aneurysms or chronic carotid artery occlusions, it is usually necessary to select a longer catheter to ensure that the device can reach the target area smoothly. 2. The influence of the outer diameter of the catheterThe outer diameter of the catheter is usually measured in French, with 1 Fr equal to 1/3 mm. Common catheter outer diameters range from 4 Fr to 8 Fr. Smaller catheter outer diameters are suitable for smaller or more tortuous blood vessels, such as cerebral blood vessels or small branched blood vessels. Larger catheter outer diameters are suitable for surgeries that require greater support, such as coronary artery intervention or treatment of aortic lesions. In addition, a smaller catheter outer diameter can reduce damage to blood vessels and reduce the risk of vascular occlusion after interventional treatment. Therefore, with radial artery access becoming the mainstream today, the use of smaller diameter catheters is the current trend. 3. The combined influence of catheter length and outer diameterThe selection of catheter length and outer diameter needs to comprehensively consider the specific needs of the surgery. For example, when performing mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke or interventional recanalization for chronic carotid artery occlusion, it is usually necessary to select a longer catheter and a larger outer diameter to ensure that the catheter can successfully reach the target vessel and provide sufficient support. When evaluating portal hypertension or pulmonary hypertension, the hemodynamic catheter needs to select the appropriate length and outer diameter according to the specific vascular conditions. 4. Matching of catheter length and outer diameterThere needs to be a certain matching between the length and outer diameter of the catheter to ensure the smooth progress of the operation. For example, when performing complex coronary artery intervention, it is usually necessary to select a longer catheter and a larger outer diameter to ensure that the catheter can smoothly reach the distal blood vessel and provide sufficient support. When performing simple angiography or stent implantation, a shorter catheter and a smaller outer diameter are more appropriate. 5. Clinical application of catheter length and outer diameterIn actual clinical applications, the selection of catheter length and outer diameter needs to be adjusted according to the patient's specific conditions and surgical needs. For example, when performing coronary artery intervention, it is usually necessary to select a longer catheter and a larger outer diameter to ensure that the catheter can smoothly reach the target blood vessel and provide sufficient support. When evaluating portal hypertension or pulmonary hypertension, the hemodynamic catheter needs to select the appropriate length and outer diameter according to the specific vascular conditions. What should be paid attention to when using a guide catheter?When using a guide catheter, you need to pay attention to the following aspects: Preoperative preparation: Before using a guide catheter, the patient needs to undergo a comprehensive examination, including medical history, allergy history, physical examination, etc., to exclude risks associated with the use of a guide catheter. At the same time, the patient's medical history and symptoms should be fully understood to ensure that the patient has no contraindications, and the status of the peripheral blood vessels should be checked to ensure the patency and applicability of the blood vessels. Disinfection and isolation: Before and during the operation, relevant disinfection and safety measures need to be taken to ensure the hygiene and safety of the catheter insertion process to avoid introducing other risks such as infection. When using a guide catheter, attention should be paid to disinfection and isolation measures to avoid introducing bacteria or viruses during the operation, causing infection or cross-infection. Operation skills: The use of a guide catheter requires skilled operation skills and experience to ensure the safety and accuracy of the operation. When using a guide catheter, the appropriate guide catheter size should be selected to ensure that it matches the patient's blood vessel size and surgical needs. At the same time, the correct operation skills should be mastered to ensure that the catheter passes through the blood vessel smoothly and reaches the expected position. Observation and monitoring: During the use of the guide catheter, it is necessary to closely observe the patient's reaction and adjust the operation plan in time. During the operation, if the guide catheter system is found to be abnormal or damaged, it should be stopped immediately and replaced or repaired in time to ensure the smooth progress of the operation. In addition, the catheter position, blood flow and patient vital signs should be closely monitored, and abnormal conditions should be handled in time. Postoperative treatment: After using the guide catheter, the patient needs to be observed, including the occurrence of complications such as postoperative infection, bleeding, and vascular injury. When removing the catheter, it is necessary to follow the operating specifications to reduce the pain and discomfort during the removal of the catheter. After use, the catheter must be properly disposed of in accordance with the medical waste disposal regulations to prevent cross infection and environmental pollution. At the same time, the guide catheter system should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to prevent the occurrence of cross infection. Storage and maintenance: The storage and maintenance of the guide catheter system is also very important. It should be placed in a dry, clean, and dust-free environment to avoid moisture or contamination. After use, the catheter must be properly cleaned and stored to avoid contact between the catheter and other objects to prevent contamination or damage to the catheter. Laws, regulations and ethics: The use of the guide catheter system should comply with relevant laws, regulations and medical ethics requirements to ensure the legality and morality of the operation. Operators should receive relevant training and learning regularly to continuously improve their professional level and technical capabilities to improve the quality and safety of the operation. When using a guide catheter, it is necessary to comprehensively consider multiple aspects such as preoperative preparation, disinfection and isolation, operation skills, observation and monitoring, postoperative treatment, storage and maintenance, as well as laws, regulations and ethics to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the operation.

In modern medicine, the endoscope insertion tube plays a vital role as a core component of minimally invasive surgery. It not only guides the camera and light source into the human body, but also provides doctors with clear images to help them make accurate diagnosis and treatment. With the continuous advancement of technology, the design and function of the endoscope insertion tube are also being optimized to meet the needs of different surgeries. The endoscope insertion tube is a flexible, extended component that is part of the medical instrument endoscope. It accommodates the light source, camera and various tools. Its main function is to provide a path for these elements to enter the body during procedures such as endoscopy, colonoscopy and laparoscopy. The use of endoscope insertion tubes enables doctors to perform various treatments on patients without large-scale surgery. The material selection of the endoscope insertion tube is crucial. Common medical-grade materials such as TPU, PA12 or PEBAX are used. These materials not only meet the requirements of biological evaluation, but also have good flexibility and bending resistance. The inner and outer layers of the tube wall are made of medical materials, and the middle braided layer can be woven with various specifications of stainless steel wire as needed to provide additional support and anti-kink ability. Disposable endoscope insertion tubes have become an indispensable core tool in urology surgery due to their high safety and convenience. This design not only reduces the risk of cross-infection, but also simplifies the surgical process and improves surgical efficiency. In addition, the use of disposable insertion tubes also reduces the maintenance cost of hospitals and provides a guarantee for the rational use of medical resources. The guide sheath plays an important role in the endoscope insertion tube, especially in improving the quality of endoscopic imaging. The design of the guide sheath ensures that the endoscope insertion tube can be flexibly operated in complex anatomical structures while maintaining the clarity and stability of the image. This design not only improves the success rate of the operation, but also reduces the discomfort of the patient. There are many types of medical endoscope insertion tubes, including circular, non-circular, curved and other shapes to adapt to different anatomical areas and surgical needs. The design of these insertion tubes not only takes into account flexibility and durability, but also focuses on user comfort and precision to improve surgical results. As part of the endoscope system, the design and manufacturing of the endoscope insertion tube need to be highly integrated. Modern endoscope insertion tubes not only have good flexibility and bending resistance, but also integrate high-definition cameras and light sources to provide clear images and lighting. This integrated design allows doctors to observe and operate in real time during surgery, improving the accuracy and safety of surgery. The emergence of endoscope insertion tube kits provides doctors with more choices and flexibility. For example, the TrueFeel series insertion tube kits provide a better operating experience through optimized design. These kits can not only adapt to different surgical needs, but also reduce vibration during surgery and improve patient comfort. What is the structure of the endoscope insertion tube? The endoscope insertion tube is a key component in the endoscope system. Its structural design is designed to ensure clear vision and operational flexibility in complex anatomical structures. The insertion tube is usually composed of a multi-layer composite structure, including from the outside to the inside: Outer layer: Made of medical-grade polyurethane (PU) or silicone material, the surface is smooth and corrosion-resistant, reducing friction during insertion and preventing body fluid penetration. Braided layer: braided by metal wire (such as stainless steel wire), providing radial strength and anti-kink ability, ensuring that the insertion part can be flexibly bent but not collapsed. Lining layer: made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or polyethylene (PE) to form a smooth channel to protect the internal optical fiber, wire and instrument channel. In addition, the front end of the insertion tube is usually provided with a bending part, which is composed of multiple snake-bone structures that are rotatably connected to each other. The inner wall of the snake-bone structure is provided with a guide groove, and the traction line passes through the guide groove and is connected to the snake-bone structure. The operating part is provided with a control knob and a control button, the control knob is connected to the traction line, and the control button is connected to the electrical signal of the pump group of the endoscope. In a flexible endoscope, the structure of the insertion tube is more complicated, usually including an insertion tube, a bending part and a tip end. The surface of the insertion tube has a layer of black resin skin with scales, which plays the role of waterproofing, corrosion resistance and identification; the middle layer is a metal mesh, which plays the role of protecting the inner layer components; the inner layer is a spiral sheet, which plays the role of bending. Four spiral tubes are welded to the front end of the insertion tube, and the steel wire is inserted into the spiral tube. The rear end of the spiral tube is welded with a corresponding fixing and installed in the bracket to balance the stability of the soft endoscope when it is angled during use. In a rigid endoscope, the insertion tube part consists of an outer tube, an inner tube and an illumination fiber. The illumination fiber is located between the inner tube and the outer tube, and its function is to illuminate the entire field of view. The insertion tube of a rigid endoscope is relatively hard and cannot be bent. It is often used for the examination and treatment of relatively straight cavities or parts such as otolaryngology and joint cavities. Material selection for endoscope insertion tubeThe endoscope insertion tube is an indispensable key component in minimally invasive surgery, and its performance and safety depend largely on the selected material. The endoscope insertion tube is usually composed of a multi-layer composite structure, and each layer of material has a specific function to ensure its flexibility, durability and biocompatibility in complex anatomical environments. 1. Jacket material: providing flexibility and protectionThe jacket material is the outermost layer of the endoscope insertion tube. Its main function is to protect the internal structure while providing good flexibility and bending resistance. Common jacket materials include: Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU): TPU has excellent flexibility, wear resistance and tear resistance, and is suitable for insertion tubes that need to be frequently bent and repeatedly used. It also has good biocompatibility and is suitable for use in the human body's internal environment.Polyamide 12 (PA12): PA12 is a high-performance engineering plastic with good chemical corrosion resistance and mechanical strength. It is suitable for insertion tubes with high durability requirements.Polyetheramide (PEBAX): PEBAX is a semi-crystalline polyester that combines softness and strength. It is often used in insertion tubes that require high flexibility and fatigue resistance. These materials not only provide good flexibility, but also remain stable during cleaning and disinfection, reducing the risk of material aging and performance degradation. 2. Reinforcement materials: provide structural support and anti-kink abilityReinforcement materials are usually added to the middle layer of the endoscope insertion tube to provide structural support and anti-kink ability. The most commonly used reinforcement materials are: Stainless steel wire: Stainless steel wire has good mechanical strength and corrosion resistance, which can effectively prevent the insertion tube from collapsing or kinking during use. By weaving into a mesh structure, stainless steel wire can enhance the radial support force of the insertion tube, so that it can remain stable in complex anatomical paths. 3. Lining material: ensure smooth lumen and unobstructed passageThe lining material is the innermost layer of the endoscope insertion tube, which directly contacts the optical fiber, wire and instrument channel. Its main function is to provide a smooth inner surface, reduce friction and damage, and ensure unobstructed passage. Commonly used lining materials include: Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE): PTFE is one of the most commonly used lining materials at present. Due to its extremely low friction coefficient and excellent chemical inertness, it can effectively prevent the wear of optical fibers and wires, and is easy to clean and disinfect.Polyamide 12 (PA12): PA12 has good lubricity and wear resistance, and is suitable for insertion tubes that require frequent sliding and repeated use.Polyetheramide (PEBAX): PEBAX has good flexibility and fatigue resistance, and is suitable for insertion tubes that require high flexibility and durability.Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF): PVDF is a high-performance fluoropolymer with excellent chemical corrosion resistance and mechanical strength, and is suitable for high-end insertion tubes with high material performance requirements. 4. Material combination and structural designThe material selection of endoscope insertion tubes is usually not single, but combined according to specific application requirements. For example: "Coat + lining" structure: The jacket material provides flexibility and protection, and the lining material provides a smooth inner surface. The combination of the two can achieve good operating performance and service life."Coat + reinforcement layer + lining" structure: In some high-end insertion tubes, a reinforcement layer (such as a stainless steel wire braid) is added in the middle to further improve the bending resistance and kink resistance of the insertion tube. 5. Basis for material selectionWhen selecting the material for the endoscope insertion tube, the following aspects are usually considered: Biocompatibility: The material must meet the safety standards for human contact to avoid allergies or tissue damage. Flexibility and bending resistance: The insertion tube needs to be flexibly bent in the human body, so the material must have good flexibility and fatigue resistance. Corrosion resistance: The insertion tube will be exposed to a variety of chemical reagents during cleaning and disinfection, so the material must have good chemical corrosion resistance. Lubricity and smoothness: The lining material must have good lubricity to reduce friction damage to the optical fiber and wire. Cleanability and sterilizability: The material must be able to withstand high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization, chemical disinfectant immersion and other treatment methods to ensure sterile use. 6. Impact of materials on performanceDifferent material combinations will have a significant impact on the performance of the endoscope insertion tube: Flexibility and bending resistance: Materials such as TPU, PA12, and PEBAX have good flexibility and are suitable for insertion tubes that need to be bent frequently.Strength and support: The stainless steel wire reinforcement layer can provide good radial support to prevent the insertion tube from collapsing in complex paths.Smoothness and channel smoothness: Lining materials such as PTFE, PA12, and PEBAX can provide a smooth inner surface, reduce friction and damage, and ensure smooth channels.Durability and life: Materials such as PA12 and PEBAX have good durability and are suitable for insertion tubes that are used for long periods of time or high-frequency operations. What are the precautions for using the endoscope insertion tube?The precautions for using the endoscope insertion tube mainly include the following aspects: 1. Avoid excessive bending or twisting: During use, avoid excessive bending or twisting of the insertion tube to avoid damage. The insertion tube is designed to provide a clear view and operational flexibility inside the human body, so it should be kept in its natural state. 2. Correct insertion and removal: When inserting the endoscope, it should be done gently and slowly, avoiding excessive force to avoid damaging the patient or the equipment. Similarly, when removing the insertion tube, it should also be operated carefully to avoid forcible pulling to avoid jamming or damage. 3. Keep clean and dry: Before and after use, the insertion tube should be kept clean and dry to prevent contamination and damage. After use, it should be thoroughly cleaned and properly stored to avoid direct sunlight and high temperature environment. 4. Avoid contact with harmful substances: The insertion tube should avoid contact with any other liquid other than water, salt water, motor oil or diesel to avoid damage. In addition, splashing water droplets should be prevented from contacting the port to avoid damage to the equipment. 5. Follow the operating instructions: When using an endoscope, the operating instructions provided by the manufacturer should be strictly followed to ensure safe and effective use of the device. For example, when adjusting the flexibility of the insertion tube, it should be done slowly and avoid rapid changes to avoid causing discomfort to the patient or damage to the device. 6. Pay attention to storage conditions: When not in use, the insertion tube should be stored in a dry, clean, dust-free environment, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures to maintain its performance and life. 7. Avoid improper operation: During use, the insertion tube should be avoided from being inserted into stepped positions, protruding positions, or positions that feel too tight to insert. In addition, the use of the insertion tube in an environment that exceeds the operating temperature range should be avoided to avoid causing product damage or performance deterioration. 8. Regular maintenance and inspection: After use, the status of the insertion tube should be checked regularly to ensure that it is free of damage and maintained and calibrated as recommended by the manufacturer. This helps to extend the life of the device and ensure its reliability in subsequent use. What are the maintenance methods for the endoscope insertion tube? Cleaning: The insertion tube should be cleaned immediately after use to remove dust, oil or other contaminants that may be attached. Use a clean soft cloth or cotton swab for cleaning, and avoid using hard cloth or hard brushes to avoid damaging the equipment. If there is sewage, oil or other liquids on the insertion tube, it should be cleaned with a soft cloth or cotton swab dipped in neutral detergent, and then wiped dry with a clean soft gauze dipped in clean water. Drying: After cleaning, all parts of the insertion tube must be thoroughly dried to prevent bacterial growth and equipment corrosion. A portable endoscope drying unit can be used for drying. Avoid bending and twisting: During use, avoid excessive bending or twisting of the insertion tube to avoid damage. Before each use, make sure that the insertion tube is straight to reduce pressure on the bite line. Proper storage: When not in use, the insertion tube should be stored in a dry, dust-proof environment and use a dedicated protective cover or box. The insertion tube should be kept straight during storage to avoid winding it into a tight coil. Regular inspection: Check the status of the insertion tube regularly to ensure that it is not damaged, and maintain and calibrate it according to the manufacturer's recommendations. If the insertion tube is found to be damaged or abnormal, contact the manufacturer or authorized dealer in time for repair. Avoid improper operation: During use, avoid inserting the insertion tube into a stepped position, a protruding position, or a position that feels too tight to insert. In addition, avoid using the insertion tube in an environment that exceeds the operating temperature range to avoid product damage or performance deterioration. By following the above maintenance methods, the correct use and maintenance of the endoscope insertion tube can be ensured, thereby improving the safety and success rate of surgery. Common faults of endoscope insertion tubes mainly include the following aspects: Deformation of the insertion tube: Deformation of the insertion tube is usually caused by external forces, such as excessive bending or twisting. This deformation can cause deformation of the instrument pipeline, breakage of the guide light, deformation of the water and gas pipeline, and even affect the image quality and light intensity. Yellowing, aging, and crystallization of the outer skin of the insertion tube: Since the residual mucus and protein are not thoroughly removed during daily cleaning and disinfection, these substances will crystallize and cause the outer skin of the insertion tube to yellow and age. After long-term use, the outer skin of the insertion tube will also age normally due to immersion in disinfectants, enzyme solutions, and alcohol. Damage to the light guide or image guide: The light guide is dim, yellow, or does not guide light, and black spots appear on the image guide. This may be due to the insertion tube being bent at too large an angle, squeezed, collided, clamped, or bitten by the patient, which may cause the optical fiber to break. Pinholes, breakage, and wrinkles appear on the insertion tube coil: Such phenomena are usually caused by collision between the insertion tube and sharp objects, too small an angle of the cleaning coil, the patient's mouth pad falling off, the mirror body being bitten by the patient, and the mirror being clamped when placed. Open welding at the root of the insertion tube: Open welding at the root of the insertion tube will affect the sealing of the endoscope and cause water leakage. Dents and bends on the insertion tube: Dents and bends on the insertion tube will affect the insertability of the endoscope. At the same time, the internal mirror surface may be cut, causing the light guide to break, the CCD objective lens to fall off, and the CCD to be damaged, resulting in abnormalities such as shadows, defects, and disappearance of the image. Damage to the outer skin of the insertion tube: Damage to the outer skin of the insertion tube may be caused by improper cleaning and disinfection, incorrect sterilization methods, etc. These faults not only affect the normal use of the endoscope, but may also cause harm to the patient. Therefore, correct operation and maintenance are the key to preventing these faults. What is the cleaning and disinfection process of the endoscope insertion tube? The cleaning and disinfection process of the endoscope insertion tube is a key step to ensure medical safety and prevent cross infection. The following is a detailed cleaning and disinfection process: Pretreatment: Immediately after use, rinse the surface and pipeline of the endoscope with running water to remove pollutants such as blood and mucus. Use a special brush to repeatedly scrub the pipeline to prevent the residue from drying up and forming a biofilm. The pretreatment time is controlled within 10 minutes to avoid the growth of microorganisms. Cleaning: Disassemble the endoscope and disassemble all detachable parts. Soak in warm water containing multi-enzyme cleaning agent (water temperature ≤40℃), rinse the inside of the pipeline with a high-pressure water gun, and manually scrub the joints with a soft brush. The cleaning agent is prepared and used immediately, and the single use time does not exceed 4 hours. Rinse with pure water three times after cleaning to ensure that there is no cleaning agent residue. Enzyme cleaning: Immerse the entire endoscope in the enzyme cleaning solution and wipe the surface of the endoscope. Rinse the endoscope pipeline while maintaining the full perfusion device. Please select the enzyme cleaning solution as described in the endoscope manual. Repeated use of the enzyme cleaning solution has a greater impact on the cleaning effect. Disinfection: Use a high-level disinfectant, such as GA, for disinfection. The disinfection method and time should follow the product instructions. Use a power pump or syringe to fill each pipe with disinfectant until no bubbles come out. Flushing: Use a power pump or pressure water gun to flush each pipe with purified water or sterile water for at least two minutes until no disinfectant remains. Use a pressure air gun to inflate all pipes with clean compressed air for at least thirty seconds until they are completely dry. Leakage test: During the cleaning and disinfection process, a leak test is required to ensure that the endoscope is leak-free. If a leak is found, the endoscope needs to be removed and sent to the maintenance department for repair. Drying and storage: Use filtered dry air and blow the inside of the pipe with an air gun until no water droplets remain. Flexible endoscopes need to be hung vertically to avoid bending damage. The storage cabinet should maintain a temperature of <24°C and a humidity of <70%, and the storage environment should be monitored daily. Storage: Cleaned and disinfected endoscopes should be stored in a dedicated storage area to maintain a sterile state and avoid secondary contamination. The endoscope insertion tube is a key component in the endoscope system. Its main function is to deliver the camera, light source and various operating tools into the human body to achieve observation and treatment of internal organs. The insertion tube is usually composed of a multi-layer composite structure, including outer jacket material, reinforcement material and lining material from the outside to the inside. Outer jacket materials such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyamide 12 (PA12) or polyetheramide (PEBAX) provide flexibility and protection; reinforcement materials such as stainless steel wire braid provide radial strength and anti-kink ability; lining materials such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or polyethylene (PE) ensure that the inner cavity is smooth, reduce friction, and facilitate the passage of optical fibers and instruments. The design of the endoscope insertion tube needs to balance flexibility and rigidity to meet the needs of different anatomical structures. For example, in urology surgery, disposable endoscope insertion tubes are often made of PTFE or PEBAX materials, which have the advantages of strong biocompatibility, smooth surface, low friction, etc., and can reduce tissue damage during surgical operations. Additionally, many insertion tubes are equipped with radiographic markers to provide real-time, precise feedback during procedures that require X-ray-assisted positioning.