5 French sheath

What does "5 French sheath" mean in a report or doctor's letter? In our medical dictionary, you will find a patient-friendly explanation of the meaning of this medical term.

Explanation

A "5 French sheath" is a medical tool used in various procedures, particularly those involving the heart and blood vessels. The term "French" is a measurement used in medicine, and "5 French" is about 1.67 millimeters in diameter. The sheath itself is a thin, flexible tube that doctors insert into a blood vessel to help guide other instruments to the correct location. It's like a pathway that allows doctors to perform procedures without causing unnecessary damage to the body.

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