Understanding Intermittent Catheterization in Males

Introduction

Intermittent catheterization is a medical procedure used to assist individuals who have difficulty emptying their bladder. It involves inserting a catheter into the bladder through the urethra, allowing urine to drain before the catheter is removed. This technique is often used in patients with neurological disorders, urinary retention, or post-surgical conditions.

When is Intermittent Catheterization Required?

It is typically recommended in cases such as: - Neurogenic bladder (due to spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, or stroke) - Urinary retention (from prostate enlargement, urethral stricture, or post-anesthesia effects) - Postoperative urinary drainage (in surgeries affecting the bladder or prostate) - Bladder dysfunction in diabetes

How to Perform Intermittent Catheterization

1. Wash hands thoroughly to reduce infection risk.
2. Prepare a sterile or clean catheter (single-use or reusable type).
3. Lubricate the catheter to ease insertion.
4. Insert the catheter gently into the urethra until urine begins to flow.
5. Allow urine to drain completely into a collection container or toilet.
6. Slowly withdraw the catheter once urine stops flowing.
7. Clean and store (if reusable) or dispose properly.

Potential Complications

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) – Common but can be reduced by proper hygiene
• Urethral irritation or trauma – Using sufficient lubrication can prevent this
• Bladder spasms – Usually transient and manageable

Preventive Measures

• Always use sterile or well-cleaned catheters.
• Maintain adequate hydration to flush bacteria.
• Follow your doctor’s recommendations for catheterization frequency.

Conclusion

Intermittent catheterization is a safe and effective approach to bladder management in male patients with urinary difficulties. Understanding its proper use and adhering to hygiene practices can significantly reduce complications and improve quality of life.

Source recommendations

1. European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines on Neuro-Urology

1. https://uroweb.org/guidelines/neuro-urology
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26304502/
3. https://uroweb.org/guidelines/neuro-urology/chapter/the-guideline
4. https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Neuro-Urology-2022.pdf
5. https://uroweb.org/guidelines/neuro-urology/summary-of-changes

2. American Urological Association (AUA) Guidelines on Catheterization

1. https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/quality-and-measurement/quality-improvement/clinical-consensus-statement-and-quality-improvement-issue-brief-(ccs-and-qiib)/indwelling-urinary-catheter-management-of-the-acute-patient
2. https://www.auajournals.org/doi/10.1097/JU.0000000000002239
3. https://www.auanet.org/meetings-and-education/for-medical-students/medical-students-curriculum/bladder-drainage
4. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2008/0301/p643.html
5. https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines/urethral-stricture-guideline