What diameter is used for small/dual-lumen catheters?

The diameter of .021 inches is commonly used for small or dual-lumen catheters in interventional radiology. This particular size strikes an important balance between flexibility and ease of manipulation for accessing various vascular and anatomically challenging locations. Small dual-lumen catheters allow for simultaneous delivery of different medications or fluids and can be critical in infection management or interventional procedures requiring multiple accesses without having to reposition a single catheter. This versatility is particularly essential in complex cases where space and access are limited.

Utilizing larger diameters could lead to difficulties in navigating through smaller vessels, while smaller diameters might not provide sufficient flow rates for certain clinical needs. Hence, .021 inches becomes the preferred choice for many procedural applications.