Intermittent Catheterization of Urinary Bladder – Indications, Technique, Complications

Overview

The intermittent catheterization technique is considered at present to be one of pillars of the therapy of lower urinary tract dysfunction. The technique gradually became used also in the treatment of some non-neurogenic voiding dysfunctions. There are many ways, how the intermittent catheterization could be performed (methodology, catheter material and type, lubrication type and method, catheterization frequency). Authors provide an overview of present indications to use the treatment; they describe individual techniques and draw attention to the possible complications and their solution. Next they emphasize the necessity of individual approach to intermittent catheterization technique in individual patients in the broader context of general concept of treatment.

Key words:
lower urinary tract dysfunction, urinary catheter, autocatheterization, urinary bladder evacuation.