Description

The Intervention Ureteric Catheter is a specialized medical device designed for use in urological procedures, particularly those involving the ureter and urinary tract. Its primary function is to facilitate urine drainage, provide access, enhance visualization, and assist in the treatment of the urinary tract during interventions such as ureteroscopy.

Key Features

• Access and Visualization: This catheter is essential for accessing the ureter and renal pelvis, especially during the management of ureteric or renal stones. It allows for the injection of diluted contrast to perform retrograde ureteropyelograms, aiding in the clear visualization of ureteral anatomy and stone identification.

• Guidewire Conduit: It serves as a conduit for guidewires and can assist in dilating the ureter. Dual-lumen versions are available, enabling simultaneous guidewire placement and contrast injection, enhancing procedural efficiency.

• Air Bubble Management: Typically, the catheter is flushed before use to remove air bubbles, ensuring optimal performance. If resistance is encountered during insertion, alternative techniques or smaller devices may be considered.

Recommended Sizes

Catheter size selection is crucial and varies based on clinical scenarios:

• Clear Urine: 12 Fr for females, 16 Fr for males.
• Mild Sediment or Light Haematuria: 14 Fr for females, 16 Fr for males.
• Moderate to Heavy Sediment or Haematuria with Clots: 16 Fr for females, 18 Fr for males (urology advice recommended).
• Severe Haematuria with Large Clots: 22–24 Fr for both genders (urology advice required).

Special Types

• Open Tip Catheters: Beneficial for patients with spinal cord injuries to aid drainage.
• Coude Tip Catheters: Useful for males with enlarged prostates.

Insertion Guidelines

Proper insertion requires an aseptic technique and the use of appropriate personal protective equipment. Essential equipment includes sterile lubricant, syringes, and drapes. Key steps involve:

• Patient Preparation: Confirming patient identity, assessing allergies, and reviewing medical history.
• Lubrication: Adequate lubrication to minimize trauma and bleeding risk, particularly in patients on anticoagulants.

For males, the catheter is inserted until urine flows, followed by balloon inflation with sterile water. For females, the catheter is advanced slightly after urine flow before balloon inflation. The catheter is then connected to a drainage device and secured to prevent tension.

Ongoing Care

• Maintenance: Regular checking of the drainage device and catheter security, along with daily cleaning of the insertion site.
• Device Changes: Changing the drainage device as needed, following aseptic techniques.

Documentation

Proper documentation includes recording the type and size of the catheter, balloon volume, and any complications during insertion. Adhering to manufacturer instructions, especially regarding balloon testing and handling resistance during insertion, is essential to ensure successful outcomes.