An Easy Solution for Difficult Urethral Catheter: Three-Way Urethral Catheter Insertion Using a Guidewire Technique

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Medical Devices
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Urethral catheter insertion is a common procedure but challenging to master.
• Difficult catheterizations can lead to patient harm and increased healthcare costs.
• Existing techniques for two-way catheter insertion using guidewires show promise.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate a novel technique for three-way urethral catheter insertion using a hydrophilic guidewire.
• To assess the safety, efficacy, and potential benefits of this method in clinical practice.
• To reduce morbidity and mortality associated with difficult urethral catheterizations.

Main Methods:

• A hydrophilic soft-tipped guidewire was employed for three-way urethral catheter insertion.
• The technique was applied in various clinical settings including wards, emergency departments, and operating theatres.
• A cohort of 15 patients underwent the procedure, with outcomes and complications meticulously recorded.

Main Results:

• A 100% success rate was achieved in all urethral catheter insertions (N=15).
• The hydrophilic guidewire technique was used for three-way catheter insertion in 26% of cases (4 out of 15 patients).
• No complications or adverse effects were reported in patients following the procedure.

Conclusions:

• The hydrophilic guidewire-assisted technique provides a safe and effective method for three-way urethral catheter insertion.
• This approach can significantly reduce trauma and improve patient safety during difficult catheterizations.
• Implementing this technique has the potential to lower healthcare costs by preventing harm from repeated unsuccessful attempts.