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:

• Tortuous internal carotid artery
• Tortuous sigmoid sinus
• Tortuous ureter

Related terms:

• stenosis
• trackability

see Tortuous vessel.