Types of Catheters Used in Urinary Care

Patients with urological issues may receive either intermittent catheters, continuous urinary catheters, or suprapubic bladder drainage tubes, depending on their specific case. Dr. CCKI Phan Huynh Tien Dat from the Department of Urology at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City explains that urinary catheterization is a common procedure used to assist patients who are unable to urinate naturally. Intermittent catheters are typically used for short-term drainage, while continuous catheters, also known as Foley catheters, are used for longer periods, up to 90 days.

Suprapubic bladder drainage tubes are inserted through a small hole in the abdomen, allowing urine to drain directly from the bladder without passing through the urethra. This type of catheter is often recommended for patients with urethral injuries or following complicated bladder surgery. Patients may need to have their catheter replaced every 4-8 weeks to prevent infection.

Dr. Tien Dat advises patients to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as cloudy urine, fever, urine leakage, or abdominal pain during catheterization. Proper care and maintenance of urinary catheters are essential, and patients are provided with instructions on how to manage their catheters at home after discharge from the hospital. Each patient’s duration of catheter wear is determined based on their individual needs and condition.