What type of wires are typically used in interventional procedures for GI bleeds?

In interventional procedures for gastrointestinal (GI) bleeds, wires that range from .018 to .014 inches in diameter are typically utilized. This size provides an optimal balance of flexibility, support, and navigability when guiding catheters through tortuous vascular anatomy. The larger diameter wires are beneficial for achieving greater stability when accessing the bleeding site, as well as allowing for the passage of various devices, such as balloons or stents, should they be required for treatment.

The specified diameter also reduces the risk of kinking during maneuvering, which is crucial in the high-stress environment associated with treating GI hemorrhages. Furthermore, these sizes are compatible with standard catheters used in such interventional techniques, ensuring effective delivery and deployment of the therapeutic agents or devices necessary to manage the bleed.