Glossary
Catheters are a fundamental tool in the medical field, used in various procedures and treatments. They are thin, flexible tubes that can be inserted into the body to treat diseases or perform a surgical procedure. The term"catheter" is derived from the Greek word "katheter" which means "to let or send down." This definition is apt, as catheters are often used to drain fluids from or administer medication to the body's internal structures.
Catheters are made from a variety of materials, including rubber, plastic, and silicone. The choice of material depends on the intended use of the catheter. For instance, some catheters need to be more flexible, while others require rigidity. The size of the catheter, often measured in French units (Fr), also varies depending on the specific application. There are several types of catheters, each designed for a specific use. Urinary catheters, for instance, are used to drain the bladder when a patient cannot urinate naturally. These can be further classified into intermittent catheters, indwelling catheters, and external catheters. Intermittent catheters are used for short-term drainage, indwelling catheters remain in the bladder for a longer period, and external catheters are used for males with urinary incontinence.
Intravenous (IV) catheters, on the other hand, are used to deliver fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into a patient's vein. They can also be used to draw blood. Central venous catheters (CVCs) are a type of IV catheter that is placed in large veins, usually in the neck, chest, or groin. These are used when patients need long-term intravenous therapy. Cardiac catheters are used to diagnose and treat heart conditions. They are inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the heart to perform procedures such as angioplasty, stent placement, or to take images of the heart and its vessels.
Catheters can also be used in other areas of the body. For example, intrathecal catheters are used to deliver medication directly into the spinal canal. Nasogastric tubes, a type of catheter inserted through the nose and down into the stomach, are used to deliver nutrition or medication or to remove substances from the stomach. While catheters are invaluable in healthcare, their use is not without risks. Infections are the most common complication associated with catheter use. This is because the insertion of a catheter can allow bacteria to enter the body, leading to urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections, or localized infections at the insertion site. Other potential complications include damage to the urethra during insertion or removal of urinary catheters, blood clots associated with IV catheters, and puncture of blood vessels or the heart with cardiac catheters. To mitigate these risks, healthcare professionals follow strict protocols for catheter insertion, maintenance, and removal. These include using sterile techniques during insertion, regularly cleaning the catheter and the skin around it, and removing the catheter as soon as it is no longer needed.
In conclusion, catheters are versatile medical devices that are used in a wide range of procedures and treatments. They allow healthcare professionals to access the body's internal structures, deliver medication or nutrition, and drain fluids. Despite the risks associated with their use, with proper care and management, catheters are an essential tool in modern medicine.