Urinary catheterization is a common procedure used to assist patients who are unable to urinate naturally. Dr. CCKI Phan Huynh Tien Dat from the Department of Urology at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City explains that this procedure can help alleviate discomfort and prevent complications such as urinary tract infections.
There are several options for urinary catheterization, depending on the patient’s specific case. Intermittent catheters are typically used for short-term drainage, while continuous catheters, also known as Foley catheters, are used for longer periods, up to 90 days. Suprapubic bladder drainage tubes are inserted through a small hole in the abdomen, allowing urine to drain directly from the bladder without passing through the urethra. This type of catheter is often recommended for patients with urethral injuries or following complicated bladder surgery.
Dr. Tien Dat advises patients to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as cloudy urine, fever, urine leakage, or abdominal pain during catheterization. Proper care and maintenance of urinary catheters are essential, and patients are provided with instructions on how to manage their catheters at home after discharge from the hospital. Each patient’s duration of catheter wear is determined based on their individual needs and condition.
Urinary catheterization can be a lifesaving procedure for many patients with urological issues
