The geometry of triple-balloon dilation.
Triple-balloon dilation (TBD) of a variety of luminal structures has been successfully, though infrequently, used. A mathematical model is presented for the selection of balloon sizes, and equations and tables are derived that allow the user to estimate more accurately the size of balloons needed for TBD of structures with large lumina. With TBD, an approximately circular lumen can be formed. Also, TBD allows smaller, higher-pressure balloons to be used instead of single, low-pressure, large balloons. However, multiple puncture sites may be required for TBD.
D000800:Angioplasty, Balloon; D002404:Catheterization; D006801:Humans; D008433:Mathematics; D008962:Models, Theoretical