What is the major advantage of using Teflon catheters over other types?

Using Teflon catheters offers a significant advantage primarily due to their low friction properties. Teflon, also known as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), is a material recognized for its smooth surface, which decreases resistance as the catheter is navigated through the circulatory system. This low friction property assists in easier and more efficient placement of the catheter, allowing for smooth movement and reducing the risk of vessel trauma during procedures.

In medical applications involving vascular interventions, reduced friction can facilitate less invasive techniques, decreasing procedural time and improving patient comfort during and after catheter insertion. This advantage can be particularly crucial in complex vascular maneuvers where maneuverability and ease of advancement through the bloodstream are essential.

Though Teflon catheters are noted for their durability, visibility, and potentially higher cost, these factors do not primarily differentiate Teflon from other types of catheters as effectively as its low friction quality does. Thus, the low friction attribute stands out as the key reason for their preferred use in various interventional procedures.