Beacon Tip Angiographic Catheter

Angiographic Catheter

Cook, Inc.’s Beacon Tip Angiographic Catheters are used to inject contrast dye into blood vessels in the heart to prepare it for a type of X-ray used to diagnose heart conditions (cardiac angiogram).

The catheter is inserted into the body through a small puncture made in the skin and placed into the blood vessel along a guide wire before injecting the contrast dye.

An angiogram is a medical test used to help physicians treat and diagnose a variety of medical conditions. They use one of three forms of imaging technology. However, they often use a contrast material injection to help provide them with a clear picture of the blood vessels in your body.

An angiographic catheter is an extremely thin tube that is inserted into your artery using a very small incision in your skin. Once the catheter has been guided to the appropriate location, the contrast medication is injected into the tube and the technician can capture all of the images needed with just a small amount of ionizing radiation.

Common Uses for the Procedure

Many physicians use the procedure to help identify any abnormalities, such as an aneurysm in your aorta, abdomen, chest, and arteries. It can also detect plaque disease in your carotid artery which prohibits the blood from being able to flow to your brain. If that happens, you could end up suffering from a stroke. Small aneurysms or malformations inside your body and brain will also be visible using this procedure.

Essentially, anything having to do with your brain, arteries and body can be identified using this procedure. It detects even the smallest of aneurysms and defects in your body to help and the physician can better formulate a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific situation and disease.

Background on the Recall

Nearly 40,000 angiographic catheters are being recalled in the US by Cook Medical after reports emerged that the catheter tip could break or split causing the tip to enter the patient’s bloodstream, causing serious injury and potentially death.

There have already been 26 reports of device malfunction, with 14 of those cases resulting in adverse events.

Angiographic Catheter Lawsuit

If you or someone you love has been affected by one of these catheters, you need to contact the dedicated team of lawyers at Richard Harris Law Firm to discuss the specifics of your case. Head online to the free consultation form or pick up the phone and call us at 702.444.4444 to speak with one of our friendly professionals.