HealthJuly 6, 2026
catheterization
/ˌkæθɪtəraɪˈzeɪʃən/
Definition
A minimally invasive medical procedure where a thin, flexible tube is inserted into a body vessel or organ, in this instance to assess or treat heart function.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek 'kathienai' (to send down or let down), the term evolved into the medical 'catheter' and was later adapted into modern English to describe the clinical procedure of inserting such a device.
In the news
The patient experienced a difficult recovery following a heart catheterization, highlighting the physical toll of navigating inconsistent healthcare coverage and fragmented medical care.
Switching to a cheaper health plan delayed a man's access to vital medicine: "He didn't deserve to die like that"
Read the full article ↗CBS News