Guide wire extension may not be essential to pass an over-the-wire balloon catheter.

The ability to pass an angioplasty balloon catheter over a regular length free guidewire can be advantageous in certain circumstances. This procedure was performed successfully in 99 consecutive patients without any complications. There was improved tactile sense of the lesion and improved dye delivery without the necessity of resorting to the use of extension wires or magnet exchange device. When performed while observing the required precautions this is a safe procedure.