Virtsakatetreiden

Virtsakatetreiden, also known as urinary catheters, are medical devices inserted into the urinary bladder through the urethra or a surgically created opening (stoma) to drain urine. They are commonly used in medical settings for patients unable to urinate naturally due to various conditions such as urinary retention, surgery, or neurological impairments.

There are several types of virtsakatetreiden, including intermittent (or straight) catheters, which are used temporarily and removed after bladder emptying, and indwelling (or Foley) catheters, which remain in place for longer periods. Indwelling catheters typically have a balloon at the tip that is inflated once inside the bladder to keep the device secure.

The materials used for virtsakatetreiden include latex, silicone, or polyurethane, chosen based on patient compatibility and duration of use. Proper hygiene and maintenance are crucial to prevent infections, especially urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are a common complication associated with catheter use.

Indications for virtsakatetreiden include urinary retention, perioperative management, accurate measurement of urine output, and management of incontinence when other options are unsuitable. The insertion procedure should be performed by trained healthcare professionals to minimize discomfort and reduce risks.

While generally safe, long-term use of urinary catheters can lead to complications such as infections, bladder spasms, or urethral injury. Therefore, their use is carefully monitored, and alternative management strategies are considered whenever possible. Research continues to improve catheter design to enhance comfort, safety, and reduce infection rates.