Review article: Urethral catheters and catheterization techniques

Abstract

Background: The urethral catheter is an essential medical device that is used in everyday medical practice worldwide. The urethral catheter has evolved over the years with several modifications and improvements to overcome the shortcomings of previous productions. With several indications, it remains one of the most commonly used devices traversing almost all specialties in the field of medicine; however, the process of urethral catheterization is occasionally challenging and may result in injury to the urethra. The attendant complications following its passage far outweigh its cost and the required skills to necessitate appropriate insertion. Knowledge of the type of urethral catheter, training with regard to its insertion, care while in situ, and competency of the attendant caregivers are required for safe catheterization. Aim: This review aims to disseminate knowledge on urethral catheter types, insertion procedures, and its attendant complications so that doctors and other health-care professionals may safely perform this necessary procedure. Materials and Methods: A review of internatinal literature was conducted using PubMed database and goggle search using key words such as urethral catheter materials and types. Result: 105 articles were identified and found suitable for the study.