blaasspoeling

Blaasspoeling, or bladder irrigation, is a medical procedure in which sterile fluid is introduced into and then removed from the urinary bladder through a catheter to flush its contents. The aim is to remove blood clots, debris, mucus, or crystals, dilute infection, and help maintain catheter patency after procedures or trauma.

Common indications include clot retention after urinary tract bleeding, postoperative care after procedures such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or bladder surgery, and persistent hematuria where clot formation threatens urinary outflow. It may also be used to keep the bladder clear in certain infections or after bladder instrumentation.

Technique and types: A catheter with multiple channels (a three-way catheter) is connected to an inflow and outflow system. The irrigation solution is usually sterile isotonic saline, though other solutions may be used in specific settings. The system is kept as closed as possible, and flow and drainage are monitored. Intermittent bladder irrigation involves periodic instillation and drainage, while continuous bladder irrigation (CBI) provides a constant flow to prevent clot formation and maintain a clear bladder.

Risks and considerations: Potential complications include urinary tract infection, bladder spasms, fever, and electrolyte disturbances (notably with non–isotonic irrigation such as glycine). Less common risks include bladder irritation, hematuria related to catheter placement, and, rarely, bladder perforation or catheter trauma.

Clinical use: The decision to perform blaasspoeling depends on the patient’s condition, the source and amount of bleeding, clot burden, and risk of infection. It is typically conducted in a hospital setting by trained healthcare professionals and may be followed by additional interventions if irrigation alone does not resolve the problem.