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catheterization
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X-ray image of coronary artery circulation Removal of thrombus in coronary artery through catheterization(A; top) The right coronary artery (arrow) is injected with an opaque contrast medium through a catheter in the aorta. The artery is completely blocked by a thrombus (blood clot) 1 cm from its origin. (B; middle) The same right coronary artery (arrow) 30 minutes after the start of intravenous thrombolytic treatment; the clot is beginning to dissolve. (C; bottom) The right coronary artery completely unblocked.
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catheterization

medicine
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History

catheterization, Threading of a flexible tube (catheter) through a channel in the body to inject drugs or a contrast medium, measure and record flow and pressures, inspect structures, take samples, diagnose disorders, or clear blockages. A cardiac catheter, passed into the heart through an artery or vein (the incision is often in the groin), can also carry pacemaker electrodes. A bladder catheter goes through the urethra into the bladder.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Kara Rogers.