Perhaps one of the most important and widely used inventions in medical history is the simple catheter. This seemingly insignificant system may not appear to be the flashiest or life saving medical tool but in the long run the impact it has had on medicine and patient care has been vast. Yet even with such a claim, many people don’t understand even the basics of the catheter.
The term “Catheter” itself is derived from an ancient Syrian word used to describe reeds, which were used as plugs. Technically speaking, Catheters have been in use since as early as 1868 when Dr. N.B Sornborger first invented a makeshift catheter system for the draining of fluids. By the early 1900’s the modern catheter designs that are still used today had come into use.
While catheter systems may vary from type and components to functionality and use, the basic elements of a catheter will remain the same in almost all situations. These elements consist of, catheter itself, a pre-lubricated needle, a filter and a case. The needle involved in the catheter system may sometimes feature a luer depending on the situation.
Despite being largely the same in terms of components, catheters may be employed for a variety of reasons and come in different formats. In some cases a catheter may be a temporary system known as an indwelling catheter. In more serious situations, the catheter may be needed permanently. This kind of catheter system is known as a permcath.
In all situations and circumstances the purpose of a catheter is always the same. Catheters are employed as a means to help remove waste from the body when the body cannot remove waste for itself. This is the basic and primary function of a catheter system in all situations.
The method of drainage may change depending on the particular situation at hand. Catheters may be employed to drain urine away from the urinary tract where the body is no longer able to do this naturally; in these cases the catheterization is rather simple and straightforward. However in some cases the catheter may be used to drain fluid directly from the kidney. These more invasive procedures are often to save a patient’s life or in serious circumstances.
In some situations a catheter may also be used to introduce fluids into the body. This may be as simple as introducing water and hydration to the body and may be as vital as adding medication to the bloodstream of a patient.
The foley catheter for women will continue to be a powerful medical tool capable of serving a variety of functions. While they may seem like a rather basic system, the common Catheter External are a versatile and dynamic Medical Supplies that can do everything from save lives to simply make each day a little bit easier.