Long-term urinary drainage for bladder obstruction

Suprapubic Catheters

A suprapubic catheter is a hollow, flexible tube inserted into the urinary bladder through a small incision in the lower abdomen to drain urine when the bladder is obstructed. This minimally invasive procedure is performed using imaging guidance and moderate sedation, allowing patients to manage urinary drainage more comfortably at home.

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About Suprapubic Catheters

Suprapubic catheters are used when a patient cannot empty their bladder due to an obstruction, such as urethral trauma, post-surgical complications, or long-term catheterization needs. Unlike indwelling urethral catheters, suprapubic catheters are inserted through a small incision in the lower abdomen and into the bladder. This approach offers a more comfortable and less infection-prone alternative for long-term urinary drainage. It can be a preferred option for patients who are sexually active, have had certain surgeries, or experience other complications with urethral catheters.

The procedure is performed under imaging guidance, such as ultrasound, with moderate or twilight sedation to ensure comfort. A small incision is made in the lower abdomen, and the catheter is inserted directly into the bladder. A balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated to secure it in place, allowing for continuous drainage of urine into an external collection bag or valve.

The suprapubic catheter is typically placed as an outpatient procedure, and most patients can go home the same day. It offers a reliable solution for managing bladder obstruction while reducing the risk of urethral injury and urinary tract infections associated with long-term use of urethral catheters.

Benefits and Effectiveness of Suprapubic Catheters

Suprapubic catheters offer several benefits, including:

Improved Comfort: Placed above the pubic bone, they are less likely to cause discomfort compared to urethral catheters.
Reduced Risk of Infection: Lower incidence of urinary tract infections compared to indwelling urethral catheters.
Preserves Urethral Function: Prevents trauma and complications associated with prolonged urethral catheter use.
Outpatient Procedure: The procedure is minimally invasive and typically does not require an overnight hospital stay.

Risks

While suprapubic catheter placement is generally safe, there are some risks, including:

Minor bleeding at the insertion site
Infection at the catheter site
Dislodgement or blockage of the catheter
Skin irritation or discomfort around the catheter

If you experience any complications or have concerns, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Contact Us About Suprapubic Catheters

If you or a loved one require a suprapubic catheter for bladder drainage, our radiology team in Southwest Florida, Cape Coral, or Fort Myers can help. Schedule a consultation to learn more about this minimally invasive procedure and its benefits.

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