Experience with a Difficult Urethral Catheterization Algorithm at a University Hospital

Abstract

Background/Aims: To determine the effectiveness and limitations of a difficult urethral catheterization (DUC) algorithm. Methods: A DUC algorithm was created based on a literature review on DUC. This algorithm was then applied to 41 consecutive patients, in which urology was consulted for DUC at a university hospital. A retrospective chart review was conducted to analyze the performance of the algorithm. Results: The algorithm was followed without breaks and resulted in a successful urethral catheterization in all the patients. No major adverse events were noted, and no catheter had to be changed for malfunction. Conclusion: The majority of DUC’s at our institution were accomplished readily following this algorithm. This algorithm has the potential of being safer, minimizing urethral dilatation and optimizing resources compared to using no algorithm, assumptions which will have to be proven on future comparative trials. The algorithm may prove useful for teaching young urologists an approach to the DUC.