Which type of balloon expands as pressure increases?

A compliant balloon expands as pressure increases due to its ability to stretch more easily under increasing internal pressure. This characteristic allows compliant balloons to adapt to various lumen diameters and apply a consistent radial force, making them particularly useful in procedures such as angioplasty. As pressure continues to rise within the balloon, it gently inflates, accommodating changes without a significant increase in pressure, which helps to avoid trauma to the surrounding vessel walls.

In contrast, non-compliant balloons maintain a fixed volume and shape as pressure increases, leading to a rapid rise in internal pressure without significant expansion. This behavior is beneficial in applications where precise vessel diameter is crucial because it ensures that the balloon does not excessively inflate beyond its intended size.

Standard balloons often refer to those that have predictable and consistent compliance characteristics, but they may not distinguish clearly between compliant and non-compliant properties.

Hybrid balloons combine features of both compliant and non-compliant balloons but do not fit into the definitions of either category distinctly. They may be advantageous in specific scenarios, but their behavior varies depending on design and intended use.

Overall, the compliant balloon's unique property of expanding with pressure makes it essential for effective interventions in vascular procedures, providing a reliable and flexible solution for treatment.