Urological concerns: Should trans-urethral catheter be located over or under the thigh?

INTRODUCTION

Bladder catheterization is a common practice after several surgical procedures; a wrong trans-urethral catheter position can affect the outcomes of some urological maneuvers. We assess with a physical model the variation of intra-vesical pressures due to different locations of the catheter.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Using a plastic bag fulfilled with 5l of normal saline, we try to reproduce bladder condition assessing pressures in case of catheter located over or under the thigh.

RESULTS

In case of catheter over the thigh, the flow of liquid is not allowed, and only a pressure of 23 cm of water induces the passage of fluid.

CONCLUSION

A wrong catheter position may adversely affect intravesical pressures; this finding has to be taken into consideration, especially when dealing with post-urological surgery catheterization.