Blodkärlskatetrar

Blodkärlskatetrar, or vascular catheters, are slender, flexible tubes inserted into blood vessels. Their primary purpose is to facilitate medical procedures, diagnostic tests, or therapeutic interventions. They are commonly used for administering medications, fluids, or blood products directly into the bloodstream. Catheters also enable the withdrawal of blood for testing or monitoring.

In diagnostic imaging, catheters are essential for angiography, a technique used to visualize blood vessels. Contrast dye is injected through the catheter, making the vessels visible on X-rays or other imaging modalities. This helps in identifying blockages, aneurysms, or other abnormalities.

Therapeutically, vascular catheters can be used for angioplasty, where a balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated to widen narrowed or blocked arteries. They are also employed in stent placement to keep vessels open. In more complex procedures, catheters can deliver drugs directly to a specific area, such as in chemotherapy.

Different types of vascular catheters exist, varying in size, material, and design depending on their intended use. Common insertion sites include the femoral artery in the groin, the brachial artery in the arm, or a central vein in the neck or chest. The insertion is typically performed by trained medical professionals under sterile conditions to minimize the risk of infection or complications. Proper placement and monitoring are crucial throughout the duration of catheter use.