Doelarterieën

Doelarterieën, also known as target arteries, are blood vessels that supply blood to specific organs or tissues in the body. They are crucial for maintaining the health and functionality of these organs. The term "doelarterie" is often used in medical contexts to describe arteries that are specifically targeted for diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. For example, in interventional radiology, doctors may use catheters to navigate through the blood vessels to reach and treat a target artery, such as those in the heart, brain, or extremities.

The anatomy of doelarterieën varies depending on the organ they supply. For instance, coronary arteries supply blood to the heart muscle, while cerebral arteries supply blood to the brain. The proper functioning of doelarterieën is essential for the normal operation of the organs they serve. Blockages or damage to these arteries can lead to various health issues, including heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease.

Diagnostic procedures to assess doelarterieën often include imaging techniques such as angiography, which uses X-rays to visualize the blood vessels. Therapeutic interventions may involve angioplasty, where a balloon is used to widen a narrowed artery, or stent placement, which involves inserting a small mesh tube to keep the artery open. Understanding the structure and function of doelarterieën is fundamental for both diagnosing and treating vascular diseases.