Katheteruntersuchungen
Katheteruntersuchungen, often referred to as catheterization, are medical procedures that involve inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into the body. This technique is employed across various medical specialties for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. In cardiology, catheterization is used to visualize the heart chambers and coronary arteries, diagnose blockages, and perform interventions like angioplasty and stenting. Urology utilizes catheterization primarily for draining the bladder, relieving obstructions, or administering medication directly into the bladder. Gastrointestinal examinations may involve catheterization for procedures like angiography or to obtain tissue samples. Neurological applications include diagnostic angiography to assess blood vessels in the brain or to treat certain conditions like aneurysms. The insertion site for the catheter varies depending on the procedure and can include blood vessels in the groin, arm, or neck, or the urethra. While generally safe, potential risks associated with catheterization include infection, bleeding, or damage to the accessed structure. Patients often receive local anesthesia or sedation during the procedure, and recovery time depends on the type and extent of the intervention.