What is the guidewire traversal test?
The guidewire traversal test is an attempt to pass a guidewire across a thrombosed vessel before lysis. If the wire can be successfully passed across the occlusion, the clot is more likely to be acute and will probably lyse. If the guidewire traversal test fails, the occlusion is more likely to be chronic and less responsive to lytic agents. An end-hole catheter, positioned proximal to the clot, may be used to deliver lytic agents and soften the clot to facilitate wire traversal. When a wire has been passed, an infusion catheter can be placed. Placement of an infusion catheter within the bulk of the clot helps lend specificity to the lysis procedure and may reduce the overall time required for lysis.
