What is the primary purpose of coils used in endovascular procedures?

The primary purpose of coils used in endovascular procedures is to occlude blood vessels. These coils, often made of materials such as platinum or stainless steel, are deployed within a target vessel or aneurysm to promote clotting and facilitate the closure of the area. This occlusion effectively prevents blood flow to the affected area, either to treat aneurysms or to block abnormal blood vessels, thereby reducing the risk of potential complications such as rupture or excessive bleeding.

Coils are especially useful in situations where traditional surgical interventions may not be applicable due to the patient's condition or the location of the problem. When coils are placed, they create a scaffold for the formation of a thrombus (clot), which further aids in achieving permanent occlusion.

Other devices and techniques in endovascular procedures have different purposes. For instance, while stents are used to maintain vessel patency, they do not serve the purpose of occlusion. Delivering contrast agent is a function of specialized catheters and contrast injection systems rather than coils. Likewise, coils do not connect catheters; that function is fulfilled by dedicated connector devices. Through their unique function, coils play a crucial role in the management of vascular issues within the body.