Simple methods of quantifying selected physical characteristics of angiographic catheters, which are like&to influence their in vivo performance, have been developed. The torsional stiffness (‘torque’) of catheters was measured, and tip control (‘manoeuvrability’in an angiographic phantom was studied. Both braided and unbraided catheters were investigated all having the‘headhunter’tip shape. Significant differences between measurements made at 20 and 37°C were found. Torsional stiffness was not a good predictor of performance in the angiographic phantom. Ethylene oxide re-sterilization has on&a limited effect on the physical characteristics studied.