kateterlaboratorium

A kateterlaboratorium, or catheterization laboratory, is a specialized hospital suite equipped for imaging-guided, catheter-based diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. It serves primarily cardiovascular interventions but also supports peripheral vascular and other interventional procedures.

The room is used for diagnostic cardiac catheterization such as coronary angiography, and therapeutic procedures including percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), angioplasty and stent placement, electrophysiology studies and catheter ablation, transcatheter valvular therapies such as TAVI, and peripheral artery interventions.

Key equipment includes fluoroscopy x-ray imaging systems, hemodynamic monitoring equipment, contrast agents, sterile instrumentation, and support devices like intravascular imaging (IVUS, OCT). The lab may also include ultrasound, defibrillators, and anesthesia delivery. Radiation safety measures and infection control are integral.

Operations are performed by a team led by an interventional cardiologist or radiologist, with scrub nurses, radiologic technologists, anesthesiologists or sedation staff, and support personnel. The workflow spans pre-procedure assessment, sterile preparation, catheter insertion usually via femoral or radial arteries, real-time imaging guidance, and post-procedure observation in a recovery area.

Safety and quality focus on minimizing infection, radiation exposure, and contrast-related kidney injury; adherence to sterile technique and post-procedure monitoring; and accreditation by health authorities. Results improve diagnostic accuracy and enable minimally invasive treatments, often reducing hospital stay with comparable or improved outcomes.