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Updated: Apr 6, 2026
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Published on: June 21, 2024
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Do Foley Catheters Adequately Drain the Bladder? Evidence from CT Imaging Studies
Svetlana Avulova1, Valery J Li1, Johnathan A Khusid1
1Department of Urology, SUNY Downstate College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
Summary
This study found that most patients (97.6%) using Foley catheters have adequately drained bladders, with residual urine volume less than 50 mL. This suggests Foley catheter efficacy for bladder drainage is generally adequate.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Radiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- The efficacy of Foley catheters for bladder drainage is debated.
- Previous studies suggest potential inadequacy in a significant percentage of patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the adequacy of Foley catheter bladder drainage.
- To quantify residual urine volume (RUV) in catheterized patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of CT scans (abdomen/pelvis) from 167 catheterized patients.
- Calculation of RUV using bladder dimensions (L, W, H) and a spherical volume formula.
- Analysis of RUV in relation to Foley catheter placement and function.
Main Results:
- The mean RUV was 13.2 mL.
- Only 2.4% of patients had an RUV greater than 50 mL.
- Two cases of RUV >50 mL were associated with improperly placed catheter tips.
Conclusions:
- The vast majority (97.6%) of patients demonstrated adequate bladder drainage (<50 mL RUV) with Foley catheters.
- Findings contrast with previous studies suggesting higher rates of inadequacy.
- Foley catheter efficacy for bladder drainage is supported by this cohort.
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