In cardiac catheterization (often called cardiac cath), a very small hollow tube, or catheter, is advanced from a blood vessel in the groin, arm, or neck through the aorta into the heart. Once it is in place, several diagnostic and treatment procedures can be done using catheterization.

A carotid artery duplex scan is an imaging test to look at how blood flows through the carotid arteries in your neck.

Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is a surgical treatment for carotid artery disease. The carotid arteries are the main blood vessels that carry oxygen and blood to the brain. In carotid artery disease, these arteries become narrowed. This reduces blood flow to the brain and could cause a stroke.

A cerebral arteriogram is a catheter-based exam of the blood vessels in the brain, head, and neck.

A cervical biopsy is a procedure to remove tissue from the cervix to test for abnormal or precancerous conditions, or cervical cancer.

Cesarean section or C-section is the surgical delivery of a baby through a cut (incision) made in the mother's abdomen and uterus.

Chest fluoroscopy is an imaging test that uses X-rays to look at how well your lungs are working. It can also look at other parts of your respiratory tract. Your respiratory tract includes your lungs, nose, throat, trachea, and bronchi.

A chest ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound waves to look at the structures and organs in your chest. It can help your healthcare provider see how well your lungs and heart are working.

A chest X-ray is an imaging test that uses X-rays to look at the structures and organs in your chest. It can help your healthcare provider see how well your lungs and heart are working. Certain heart problems can cause changes in your lungs. Certain diseases can cause changes in the structure of the heart or lungs.

A cholecystectomy is surgery to remove your gallbladder.

This prenatal test involves taking a sample of tissue from the placenta to test for chromosomal abnormalities and certain other genetic problems.

Colonoscopy is a procedure that lets your healthcare provider check the inside of your entire large intestine or colon.

A colostomy is an operation that creates an opening for the colon, or large intestine, through the abdomen. A colostomy may be temporary or permanent. It is usually done after bowel surgery or injury.

Your healthcare provider uses colposcopy to view the opening to the uterus, called the cervix, and the vagina. Your provider uses an instrument with a magnifying lens and a light, called a colposcope.

Computed tomography is an imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to make detailed images of the body. A CT scan shows details of the bones, muscles, fat, and organs.

A computed tomography (CT) scan is an imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to make detailed images of the body. A CT scan shows details of the bones, muscles, fat, and organs.

Computed tomography is an imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to make detailed images of the body. A CT scan shows details of the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than standard X-rays.

Coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) is a procedure used to treat coronary artery disease. One way to treat the blocked or narrowed arteries is to bypass the blocked portion of the coronary artery with a piece of a healthy blood vessel from elsewhere in the body.

A craniotomy is the surgical removal of part of the bone from the skull to expose the brain for surgery. Read on to learn what to expect before, during, and after this procedure.

Cryotherapy involves freezing cancer cells and cutting off their blood supply. Read on to learn more about this treatment.