Cateters

A catheter is a thin, flexible tube that can be inserted into the body for medical purposes. The term "catheter" is often used generically to refer to devices used for drainage, administration of fluids or medications, or for surgical procedures. The most common type is the urinary catheter, used to drain urine from the bladder. This can be necessary for individuals who have difficulty emptying their bladder due to various medical conditions or surgical recovery. Urinary catheters can be inserted into the bladder through the urethra (urethral catheter) or through a small incision in the abdomen (suprapubic catheter).

Beyond urinary drainage, catheters have a wide range of applications. In cardiology, catheters are used in procedures like angioplasty to open blocked blood vessels or to implant devices like pacemakers. They can also be used to administer chemotherapy directly to tumors or to deliver fluids and medications intravenously. In diagnostic procedures, catheters can be used to collect fluid samples or to take measurements within the body. The material of a catheter varies depending on its intended use, with common materials including silicone, latex, and polyurethane. Proper insertion and maintenance are crucial to prevent infection and other complications associated with catheter use.