cathéter

A cathéter, or catheter, is a flexible tube inserted into the body to drain fluids, deliver medications, or facilitate access for monitoring or procedures. The spelling cathéter is used in French; in English the term catheter is standard.

Common types include urinary catheters (such as Foley catheters) and intravascular catheters (peripheral intravenous, midline, central venous) and arterial catheters for blood pressure monitoring and arterial blood sampling. Catheters vary in size, material, and the number of lumens to support different functions.

Materials include silicone, latex, and polyurethane; some catheters are coated to reduce friction or infection risk. Design features such as a balloon in urinary catheters and multiple lumens in vascular catheters enable retention, drainage, drug delivery, and sampling.

Insertion is performed under sterile technique by trained healthcare professionals; the choice of site depends on the purpose. Urinary catheters may be placed via the urethra or surgically via a suprapubic route; vascular catheters are inserted into veins or arteries.

Care and maintenance aim to minimize infection and blockage. This includes keeping closed drainage systems intact, securing the device to prevent tugging, regular cleaning of insertion sites, and timely removal when no longer needed. Signs of complications include fever, redness or swelling at the insertion site, pain, leakage, or inability to obtain samples.

Risks include infection, bleeding, thrombosis, catheter misplacement, and catheter obstruction. Proper technique and prompt removal when not indicated reduce these risks. Catheter development has evolved since early medical practice, with modern designs emphasizing safety, sterility, and patient comfort.