Definition: In medical terminology, “tortuous” describes an anatomical structure—typically a vessel, duct, or pathway—that is excessively twisted, winding, or meandering.
Clinical relevance: Tortuous anatomy can impede catheter navigation, increase procedural complexity, and may be associated with underlying vascular pathology (e.g., atherosclerosis, elongation, or stenosis).
Examples:
Related terms:
see Tortuous vessel.