A rapid exchange (monorail) balloon is designed to be operated by how many people?

• A. One person
• B. Two people
• C. Requires two guidewires
• D. Needs exchange length wire

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that rapid-exchange (monorail) balloons are designed for single-operator use. The catheter has a short rapid-exchange segment near the distal end, which lets you thread and position the balloon over one guidewire without needing to manage a long exchange wire or coordinate with a second operator. This design keeps the guidewire fixed while you advance, position, and deploy the balloon with one hand, making the procedure simpler and faster.

That’s why one person is the best answer. Using two operators or requiring two guidewires or an exchange-length wire aren’t inherent to rapid-exchange balloons—they’re features of other catheter designs.