Percutaneous, large-bore, suprapubic cystostomy: technique and results.

A technique to insert large-bore suprapubic cystostomy catheters (18-French or larger) percutaneously, under radiologic imaging guidance, is described in 15 men who required long-term drainage of the bladder. This single-stage procedure is carried out under local anesthesia with optional IV sedation. It consists of rapid enlargement of the percutaneous track by means of a balloon dilatation catheter followed by insertion of a self-retaining Foley cystostomy catheter through a peel-away sheath. No complications associated with the placement of the catheters occurred, and long-term patient compliance has been satisfactory. Our results suggest that percutaneous, large-bore suprapubic cystostomy may be a preferred alternative to surgical cystostomy.