Difficulty in removing suprapubic urinary catheters in home based patients: a comparative descriptive study

The aim of the study was to monitor difficulties being experienced by community nurses when removing suprapubic catheters in 94 patients living in two area health services in Sydney. The study identified one catheter brand (Simpla) that was associated with more pain and bleeding for patients, and increased difficulties in removal for the nurses. It was found that muscle relaxant medications taken by patients contributed significantly in ease of catheter removal. In over 50% of all-silicone catheters surveyed, there was evidence of hysteresis leading to balloon cuffing on deflation. This phenomenon could be associated with increased trauma to the suprapubic cystostomy tract on catheter removal. A review of the risks and benefits associated with all-silicone catheters used for suprapubic insertion is recommended.