Suprapubic Catheter Placement

Suprapubic catheterization is indicated (when transurethral catheterization is contraindicated or technically not possible) to relieve urinary retention due to the following conditions:

• Urethral injuries
• Urethral obstruction
• Bladder neck masses
• Benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH)
• Prostate cancer

A suprapubic catheter placement is a minimally invasive procedure performed by an Interventional Radiologist using X-ray and ultrasound guidance. After the patient is adequately sedated, a small surgical nick is made into the skin between the belly button and pubic bone. A needle is then inserted into the bladder. Dilation of the tract is performed. A suprapubic tube is then placed for urinary diversion purposes. 

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