Insertion, care and management of suprapubic catheters.

A suprapubic catheter may be used to drain the bladder of urine as an alternative to an indwelling urethral catheter. It can be inserted as a temporary or permanent measure in patients with urinary dysfunction or if initial urethral catheter insertion or recatheterisation is problematic. This article discusses insertion of suprapubic catheters, management and care, including changing suprapubic catheters, drainage systems and the importance of patient education.