Suprapubic Cystostomy Using Optical Urethrotome in Female Patients

Abstract

Purpose:

In many female patients for lower urinary tract reconstructive procedures, a suprapubic cystostomy along with perurethral catheter is required for urinary diversion. We describe a new and simple method of intraoperative suprapubic catheter placement using optical urethrotome wherein distension of bladder is not required.

Patients and Methods:

A total of 26 patients underwent suprapubic catheter placement intraoperatively with the aid of Sachse’ optical urethrotome and its outer sheath from January 2005 to May 2008.

Results:

A 16F Foley catheter could be successfully placed suprapubically in all patients with this method. There were no complications like injury to intraabdominal viscera, retropubic hematoma, hematuria, or catheter dislodgement.

Conclusion:

We describe a new method of intraoperative suprapubic catheter placement in female patients that is minimally invasive, technically safe, simple, and effective, and does not require bladder distension.