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Suprapubic Catheter

Suprapubic (SP) Urinary Catheter (SPC or SP Tube [SPT])

Background: Suprapubic catheterization (SPC) is placement of a hollow tube, a urinary catheter, into the bladder through a small incision in the avascular midline of the rectus sheath in the lower abdominal wall just above (3 cm) the symphysis of the pubic bone and below the naval. These 2 Figures show an SPC inserted in a female and a male. Like an indwelling urethral catheter (IUC), the catheter is there to drain the bladder and is secured in the bladder by a balloon inflated with fluid.
  • Written by: Diane K. Newman, DNP, ANP-BC, FAAN

Urinary Catheter Valves

Description: A urinary catheter valve, sometimes referred to as a “catheter plug” is a tap-like device fitted into the end of an indwelling urethral catheter (IUC) or suprapubic catheter (SPC). It allows the bladder to fill and then be emptied into a toilet or container at regular intervals during the day (e.g. 4-5 times/day). This mimics the physiologic function of the bladder. A catheter valve may be used in those patients who may have other options for future bladder management,
  • Written by: Diane K. Newman, DNP, ANP-BC, FAAN

Suprapubic Urinary Catheter Indications

Suprapubic catheters are often placed for a short time following certain surgical procedures as they can contribute to patients’ improved recovery times, compared with urethral catheterization. They can provide stable bladder drainage before and after complex urethral reconstructions.
  • Written by: Diane K. Newman, DNP, ANP-BC, FAAN

Suprapubic Catheterization (SPC)-Related Complications and Problems

The complication rate for cystostomy (surgical procedure for insertion of a suprapubic catheter (SPC)) ranges from 1.6% to 2.4%. The first few catheter changes after the initial SPC insertion should be performed using a guidewire as acute complications can occur.
  • Written by: Diane K. Newman, DNP, ANP-BC, FAAN

Procedure for Changing a Suprapubic Catheter (SPC or SPT)

The initial insertion of a suprapubic catheter (SPC), a procedure referred to as a suprapubic cystostomy, can be performed under local or general anesthesia with a trocar system, using cystoscopic or ultrasound guidance. SPC insertion is an aseptic procedure that can be performed in an outpatient or office setting
  • Written by: Diane K. Newman, DNP, ANP-BC, FAAN
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