Category
Urology
Typical Use
Long term bladder drainage via abdominal wall.
Description
A catheter inserted through the lower abdominal wall directly into the bladder to provide long term urinary drainage when urethral catheterization is contraindicated or poorly tolerated, offering improved comfort and reduced urethral trauma for some patients. Suprapubic catheter placement is performed under sterile conditions with local or general anesthesia and requires secure fixation, regular dressing changes, and patient education on catheter care and emptying. Complications can include infection, catheter blockage, and bladder spasms; routine follow up and timely catheter changes reduce these risks. Selection of suprapubic catheterization should consider patient anatomy, mobility, and goals of care.