Húgycskatéterek

Húgycsatéterek, or urinary catheters, are flexible tubes used to drain urine from the bladder. They are a common medical device inserted into the bladder through the urethra. The primary purpose of a catheter is to assist individuals who cannot empty their bladder naturally due to various medical conditions.

These conditions can include urinary retention, nerve damage affecting bladder control, prostate enlargement, or during or after surgical procedures. Catheters can also be used to collect sterile urine samples for diagnostic testing or to monitor urine output in critically ill patients.

There are several types of urinary catheters. The most common is the intermittent catheter, which is inserted, used to drain the bladder, and then removed. Indwelling catheters, also known as Foley catheters, are left in place for a longer period, secured by a balloon inflated within the bladder. Suprapubic catheters are inserted directly into the bladder through a surgical opening in the abdomen.

The insertion and management of urinary catheters require sterile technique to prevent infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs). Patients and caregivers are often educated on proper hygiene and catheter care. While essential for many, catheterization can carry risks, including infection, bladder irritation, and discomfort. Medical professionals determine the appropriate type of catheter and duration of use based on individual patient needs and clinical circumstances.