catheter A tube used to drain or inject fluid, or to apply pressure toa vessel. Urinary catheters are commonly used to drain urine from the bladder. Other types are used to sample blood from the heart or to inject dye into the blood vessels during X-ray screening (see cardiac catheterization). Catheters are also used to unblock or widen obstructed blood vessels, or to control bleeding. Related category • HEALTH AND DISEASE Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |