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article · Open Journal of Urology

An Uncommon Complication of Suprapubic Catheter

In plain language

Suprapubic catheterisation provides an effective method for urinary diversion, commonly used in individuals experiencing urethral strictures, bladder neck stenosis, or during post-operative recovery to facilitate tissue healing. Despite these benefits, leaving an indwelling catheter in place for longer than required poses distinct clinical hazards. Over prolonged periods, a retained device can act as a physical focus for bladder stone formation. In a recorded case involving an adult male, this uncommon complication necessitated a suprapubic cystostomy to excise the retained device. Following the successful procedure, the patient experienced an uneventful initial recovery and entered ongoing follow-up for definitive care. This case demonstrates the critical necessity for healthcare personnel to maintain vigilant, regular catheter maintenance routines and to ensure comprehensive patient education whenever such devices are deployed.

Key takeaways

  • Suprapubic catheterisation is commonly employed to manage urethral strictures, bladder neck stenosis, or post-surgical recovery.
  • Retaining a suprapubic catheter beyond the necessary duration can cause it to act as a nidus for bladder stone formation.
  • A patient presenting with this complication was successfully treated via suprapubic cystostomy and device removal.
  • Preventing such complications requires rigorous routine catheter care by healthcare providers and thorough patient education.

Why it matters

Urinary catheters are standard clinical tools, but prolonged use without adequate oversight can result in severe secondary problems such as bladder stones. Raising awareness around these complications helps healthcare teams improve routine maintenance protocols and deliver better patient guidance, ultimately reducing avoidable surgical interventions and improving long-term health outcomes.

Commercialisation angle

The abstract does not indicate an application pathway, as it describes a clinical case report rather than a technological innovation or commercial product.

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Abstract

We report an uncommon complication of indwelling suprapubic catheter in an adult male. Suprapubic catheterization is a form of urinary diversion which is often indicated in patients with urethral stricture and bladder neck stenosis. Suprapubic catheter can also be placed post-operatively to allow for the urinary bladder and urethral to heal properly after being operated on. However, when a suprapubic catheter is retained for longer than necessary, it can serve as a nidus for stone formation in the bladder. Hence, to prevent complications like this, healthcare providers should pay significant attention to the regular care of suprapubic catheters and adequately educate patients on the same if suprapubic catheter is indicated. After evaluation, our patient had suprapubic cystostomy and removal of the retained catheter. The immediate post-operative period was uneventful, and he has been on follow-up for definitive interventions.

Research topics

  • Central Venous Catheters and Hemodialysis
  • Urinary Tract Infections Management
  • Urinary Bladder and Prostate Research

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DOI: 10.4236/oju.2025.153008

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