Catheters

Catheter is a thin tube made from medical grade materials serving a broad range of functions. Catheters are medical devices that can be inserted in the body to treat diseases or perform a surgical procedure. By modifying the material or adjusting the way catheters are manufactured, it is possible to tailor catheters for cardiovascular, urological, gastrointestinal, neurovascular, and ophthalmic applications.

Types of Catheters

There are several types of catheters for different medical purposes:

• Urinary catheters: Used to help patients urinate when they cannot do so naturally due to medical conditions like severe urinary retention, prostate hypertrophy, or neurological disorders affecting bladder control. Urinary catheterization involves the insertion of a catheter through the urethra into the bladder.
• Central venous catheters: Inserted into a large vein in the neck, chest, or groin to administer medication or fluids, obtain blood tests, and directly obtain cardiovascular measurements. Central venous catheterization is crucial for managing patients in critical care.
• Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC): A type of central venous catheter inserted into a peripheral vein, often in the arm, and advanced towards the heart. It is used for prolonged intravenous access.
• Hemodialysis catheters: Used for exchanging blood to and from a hemodialysis machine and the patient's body. These are critical for patients undergoing dialysis.
• Foley catheters: A specific type of urinary catheter that stays in place, allowing continuous drainage of urine into a collection bag. They are often used for patients undergoing surgery or those with acute illness or injury.

Materials

Catheters are made from a variety of materials, including:

• Silicone
• Latex
• Polyurethane
• Teflon

The choice of material depends on the intended use of the catheter, the duration it will be in place, and potential reactions to the catheter material.

Procedure

The procedure for inserting a catheter varies depending on the type of catheter and the intended use. Generally, the area of insertion is cleaned and disinfected. Local anesthesia may be applied. Using sterile technique, the catheter is then inserted into the body. For urinary catheters, lubrication is often used to ease insertion through the urethra.

Risks and Complications

Catheter use is associated with several risks and complications, including:

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Urethral injury
• Phlebitis in the case of intravenous catheters

Proper care and maintenance of catheters are essential to minimize these risks.

Care and Maintenance

Catheter care involves regular cleaning of the insertion site and the catheter itself to prevent infection. For indwelling catheters, such as Foley catheters, ensuring that the collection bag is below the level of the bladder to prevent urine backflow is crucial. Regular monitoring for signs of infection or complications is also necessary.

Conclusion

Catheters are vital medical devices that aid in the treatment and management of various medical conditions. Their use must be carefully managed to prevent complications, and they should be selected based on the specific needs of the patient and the medical procedure.