title: Safe percutaneous suprapubic catheterisation.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  We describe our technique of percutaneous suprapubic catheter insertion with special reference to steps that help to avoid common complications of haematuria and catheter misplacement.
  
  
  METHODS
  The procedure is performed using a stainless steel reusable trocar under  local infiltrative anaesthesia, usually at the bedside. After clinical confirmation of a full bladder, the trocar is advanced into the bladder through a skin incision. Once the bladder is entered, the obturator is removed and the assistant inserts a Foley catheter followed by rapid balloon  inflation. Slight traction is applied to the catheter for about five minutes. Patients with previous lower abdominal surgery, an inadequately distended bladder or acute pelvic trauma do not undergo suprapubic catheterisation using this method.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The procedure was performed in 72  men (mean age: 42.4 years, range: 18-78 years) with urinary retention with a palpable bladder. The average duration of the procedure was less than five minutes. No complications were noted in any of the patients.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Trocar suprapubic catheter insertion is a safe and effective  bedside procedure for emergency bladder drainage and can be performed by resident surgeons. The common complications associated with the procedure can be avoided with a few careful steps.
authors.affiliation: CSM Medical University, India.
authors.forename: N K
authors.initials: NK
authors.lastname: Goyal
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Goel
authors.forename: S N
authors.initials: SN
authors.lastname: Sankhwar
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003559:Cystostomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D004867:Equipment Design; D006417:Hematuria / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014546:Urinary Catheterization / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D055815:Young Adult