Urinary Catheter: What You Need to Know
When you or a loved one hears the term urinary catheter, it can feel intimidating. But for many people with urinary retention, surgery, or other medical needs, a catheter is a helpful tool that enables daily life and prevents serious complications.
At Urology of Greater Atlanta, our team of board-certified doctors has extensive experience in catheter placement, management, and education. If you’re considering catheter use or have questions about types, risks, or how to live with one, please reach out to one of our Georgia locations for guidance and appointment scheduling.
Topic at a Glance
- A urinary catheter is a medical device used to drain your bladder when spontaneous urination isn’t possible.
- Proper catheter placement and sterile technique help prevent infection, but risks like bladder spasms, blood clots, or bladder stones can occur.
- The decision to use a catheter involves balancing potential benefits (relief from retention, postoperative care, kidney protection) against risks or complications.
- With careful monitoring, cleaning, and medical follow-up, many patients adapt well and maintain quality of life.
What is a Catheter and What is it Used For?
A catheter is a flexible tube or medical device designed to allow drainage of fluids, in this case, urine, from the urinary system. When the bladder cannot pass urine normally, whether due to obstruction, neurological conditions, surgery, or other issues, a catheter ensures that urine is drained efficiently and safely.
There are multiple types of urinary catheters:
- Indwelling catheters (also called Foley catheters) remain in place continuously. There are two types of indwelling catheter:
- Urethral catheter: That goes through the urethra
- Suprapubic catheter: This is inserted through the abdominal wall
- Intermittent catheters are inserted to drain the bladder, then removed immediately after.
- External catheters (also called condom catheters) are sometimes used for those who don’t have retention problems. They may be recommended for those with mental problems like dementia.
All these catheters are connected via catheter tubing to a collection bag (or drainage bag) that collects the urine. Some catheters have a curved tip, also called a “coudé tip,” to help navigate obstacles such as an enlarged prostate.
What Happens During Urinary Catheter Placement?
The procedure depends on which type of catheter is used, but generally:
- The catheter area (urethra or abdominal insertion site) is cleaned using antiseptic solutions
- They may also use a numbing gel or cream to make the procedure more comfortable.
- A lubricated catheter is gently guided through the urethra (for urethral catheter) or inserted via a small incision in the lower abdomen (for suprapubic catheter).
- The catheter is advanced until urine flows, confirming entry into the bladder.
- For Foley catheters, a small balloon near the tip is inflated to anchor the catheter in the bladder.
- The catheter tubing is secured, and the drainage bag is connected.
- After placement, the site is reassessed and dressed if necessary.
During intermittent catheter placement, the catheter is removed soon after bladder drainage instead of being left in place.
What Are the Potential Benefits of a Urinary Catheter?
Using a catheter can provide several important advantages:
- Relief of urinary retention as it drains the bladder fully, preventing discomfort or injury.
- Prevent backup, which reduces pressure on the kidneys. This can help avoid hydronephrosis or kidney damage.
- Provides postoperative care until normal bladder function returns.
- Provides accurate measurement of urine volume for patients in critical care or hospital settings.
- Facilitating healing after certain urologic surgeries or injuries.
What Are the Risks or Complications of Urinary Catheters?
While catheter use is common and often safe, several risks must be considered:
- Risk of infection: The most frequent complication. Bacteria may migrate along the catheter to cause urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Bladder spasms: Involuntary contractions of the bladder can cause discomfort or leakage around the catheter.
- Blockage: Debris, blood clots, or encrustation can obstruct the catheter tubing or drainage bag.
- Bladder stones: Long-term catheter presence may increase the risk of stone formation.
- Urethral trauma or erosion: Continuous friction from urethral catheters can cause irritation or narrowing.
- Bleeding or blood clots: Minor bleeding may occur during placement or removal, causing blood clots.
- Dislodgement: Accidental tugging may pull out the catheter.
To minimize risks, strict aseptic technique, proper maintenance, and regular monitoring are essential.
Outlook of Urinary Catheter Use
For many patients, catheter use is a temporary measure. Once the underlying issue resolves, the catheter can often be removed. In chronic cases, patients may live with indwelling catheters or intermittent catheter schedules indefinitely under medical supervision.
With careful catheter care, including cleaning the external tubing with soap and water, periodic flushing, changing drainage bags, and vigilant monitoring, many complications can be prevented. Regular medical follow-up helps detect early signs of infection, blockage, or other issues.
At Urology of Greater Atlanta, our board-certified team is experienced in all aspects of catheter care, selection of suprapubic catheters, troubleshooting catheter use, and patient education. We guide you in catheter placement, maintenance, and planning for eventual removal when possible.
Catheter Care in Atlanta, GA
If you or a loved one is facing catheter management or considering whether a urinary catheter is right for you, Urology of Greater Atlanta is here to help. Our Georgia locations offer expert care from board-certified physicians who specialize in urinary tract health and patient comfort.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment or consultation. You don’t have to face catheter care alone.
FAQs About Urinary Catheterisation
What is the difference between a Foley catheter and a suprapubic catheter?
A Foley catheter is a type of urethral catheter placed through the urethra and held in place with a balloon. A suprapubic catheter is an indwelling catheter inserted through the abdominal wall into the bladder, bypassing the urethra. Suprapubic catheters may reduce urethral irritation and are chosen when urethral placement is not feasible.
Can I remove a catheter on my own at home?
No, you should not remove a catheter on your own. Catheter removal should always be performed or supervised by a trained medical professional. Improper removal can cause trauma, bleeding, or retention. Discuss with your urologist before considering removal.
How often should I clean or flush my catheter?
You should follow your physician’s instructions, but generally you should wash your hands, clean the catheter with soap and water, empty the drainage bag before it’s full, and flush with sterile water or saline if instructed. Regular catheter and bag maintenance help prevent infection and blockages.
What signs indicate a catheter-related infection?
Warning signs include fever, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, burning or pain, bladder spasms, leakage around the catheter, or flank pain. Call your urologist promptly if you experience any of these symptoms.
Can bladder stones form while using a catheter?
Yes, long-term catheter use can increase the risk of bladder stones due to encrustation and mineral crystallization. Regular monitoring and timely catheter changes help minimize this risk.
What if I am embarrassed to have this exam?
Our professionals have many years of experience and have seen it all, so there is no need to feel embarrassed. Their main focus is to help you by locating any medical abnormalities.
