Suprapubic cystostomy

A suprapubic cystostomy is a surgically-createdconnection between the urinary bladderand the skin which is used to drain urinefrom the bladder in individuals with obstruction of normal urinary flow. Urinary flow may be blocked by swelling of the prostate (benign prostatic hypertrophy), traumatic disruption of the urethra, congenital defectsof the urinary tract, or by other obstructing objects such as kidney stonesand cancer. Initially, a thin tube (catheter) is placed through the skin just above the pubic boneinto the bladder, often with the assistance of ultrasoundimaging. This catheter initially remains in place for up to a month while the tissue around it scars and forms a tract between the bladder and the skin. After the initial period, the catheter is changed intermittently in order to help prevent infections.

References

Aguilera PA, Choi T, Durham BA. Ultrasound-guided suprapubic cystostomy catheter placement in the emergency department. J Emerg Med. 2004 Apr;26(3):319-21. PMID 15028331

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