What is a Waltman loop?
The distal tip of any catheter can be looped back to form a reverse curve catheter. A Waltman loop is the configuration of a standard catheter when the distal end has been formed into a reverse curve loop. The simplest technique to do this involves selection of an aortic branch vessel. The tip is maintained in a constant position as wire and catheter are advanced in unison. This creates a large reverse curve that can stabilize access and facilitate difficult catheterizations.
