Particle release from angiographic utensils.

Particles released from angiographic catheters and guide-wires are determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive roentgen analysis (EDAX). The particles originate from the manufacturing processes and from the catheter and guide-wire material itself. More than 1000 particles with a diameter larger than 5 micrometer from the catheters (100 cm length) were found. The introduction of a guide-wire into the catheter increased the particle release significantly. Bismuth (Bi), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), aluminium (Al), zinc (Zn), cobalt (Co) and silicon (Si) were found in single particles from both catheters and guide-wires. It is recommended that public health authorities establish limits for particle release from angiographic utensils.