[Echo-guided punction with pistol for extraction of retained urethral balloon catheters].

OBJECTIVES

We report our experience with a percutaneous technique for the removal of a balloon catheter retained within the bladder, using transrectal ultrasound and the biopsy gun.

METHODS

Using ultrasound equipment with a transrectal probe of 5 mHz, we introduce the biopsy gun with an 18G needle guided by the probe. It is aimed at the retained balloon, which is deflated by punction.

RESULTS

We carried out this technique successfully and without complications on three patients.

CONCLUSIONS

We believe this technique is simple, efficient and quickly resolves the problem with minimum or no morbidity.