Kateterisaatio

Kateterisaatio, often referred to as catheterization, is a medical procedure involving the insertion of a catheter, a thin, flexible tube, into a body cavity, duct, or vessel. The most common application is urinary catheterization, where a catheter is inserted into the bladder through the urethra to drain urine. This is performed when a person is unable to urinate on their own due to various medical conditions, such as urinary retention, bladder obstruction, or during certain surgical procedures.

Other forms of catheterization include cardiac catheterization, used to diagnose and treat heart conditions by inserting a catheter into a blood vessel and guiding it to the heart. This allows for procedures like angioplasty or stent placement. Intravenous catheterization involves inserting a catheter into a vein to administer fluids, medications, or for blood sampling. Gastrointestinal catheterization can be used for feeding (e.g., nasogastric tubes) or drainage.

The procedure is typically performed by trained healthcare professionals. While generally safe, potential risks can include infection, tissue damage, or bleeding, depending on the type and location of the catheterization. The duration of catheterization varies, from temporary use for short-term needs to longer-term management of chronic conditions. Proper hygiene and sterile techniques are crucial to minimize complications.