Which of the following techniques is NOT utilized in the catheterization of the left heart?

The technique of catheterization for the left heart typically involves accessing the left atrium (LA) or left ventricle (LV) directly or indirectly through various routes. In this context, option C, which describes percutaneous needle puncture through the aorta, is not a standard method for catheterizing the left heart.

This approach is less common because catheterization generally focuses on accessing the chambers of the heart through veins or arteries that lead directly to the structure being examined or treated. While it is feasible to advance catheters through the aorta into the left heart, the technique mentioned does not specifically represent a direct puncture method that is utilized in such procedures.

In contrast, the other techniques listed represent established practices. Percutaneous needle puncture of the left atrium and the left ventricle are direct techniques applied in specific clinical scenarios, often during procedures like transseptal catheterization or LV catheterization for pressure measurements. Similarly, retrograde catheterization involves threading a catheter back through the aorta into the left heart, which is a widely recognized method for inspecting or performing interventions on left-sided heart structures.

Therefore, option C is correct, as it does not align with standard catheterization techniques used for accessing the left heart chambers