Review Article: Evaluation of Micro Catheter Tubing Strength and Advantages in Medical Applications

Microcatheters serve as essential instruments in less-invasive medical procedures, enabling precise treatment across various specialties, including peripheral cardiovascular surgery, neurology, cardiology, and oncology. A vital consideration in determining procedural safety, reliability, and clinical effectiveness is the mechanical strength of these devices—specifically, their tensile strength. This study investigates the tensile strength of various microcatheter tube polymers, including silicone, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and medical-grade polyamide, by conducting standardized mechanical testing in accordance with ISO 10555-1 and ASTM D638 standards. The key mechanical properties—such as Young's modulus, elongation at break, and maximum tensile strength—were evaluated under controlled environmental conditions using a universal tensile testing machine. Significant performance diversity is demonstrated by the results, underscoring the significance ofcomponent selection in maximizing catheter strength, flexibility, and durability. These findings provide critical insights for manufacturers aiming to enhance microcatheter design—ensuring compliance with medical device standards while improving clinical outcomes. Future work will explore advanced biomaterials and in vivo testing to further refine catheter performance.