katheterinterventie

Katheterinterventie, also known as catheter-based intervention or percutaneous intervention, is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to diagnose and treat various cardiovascular and other vascular conditions. It involves the insertion of a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a blood vessel, typically in the groin or arm, and guiding it to the specific area of concern within the body.

Once the catheter is in place, specialized instruments can be advanced through it to perform diagnostic imaging or therapeutic interventions. Diagnostic purposes include angiography, where a contrast dye is injected to visualize blood flow and identify blockages or abnormalities. Therapeutic interventions may involve angioplasty, where a balloon is inflated at the site of a blockage to widen the narrowed artery, or stenting, where a small mesh tube is deployed to keep the artery open.

Katheterinterventie is commonly used to treat conditions such as coronary artery disease (blocked heart arteries), peripheral artery disease (blockages in leg arteries), and valvular heart disease. It offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including smaller incisions, less pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times. However, like any medical procedure, it carries potential risks and complications, which are discussed with patients before the intervention. The success and safety of katheterinterventie depend on the patient's overall health, the specific condition being treated, and the expertise of the medical team.