suprapubic aspiration of urine


suprapubic aspiration of urine

A procedure for draining the bladder when it is not possible to use a urethral catheter. The skin over the lower abdominal area is cleansed. An incision in the abdominal wall is made with a needle or trocar to gain access to the bladder. To prevent complications during the procedure, it is important to observe the following guidelines: The patient should be positioned in the marked Trendelenburg position. The bladder should be distended with 400 ml of fluid. Any previous abdominal wall incisions that may have left the bladder or bowel adherent to the scar tissue should be noted. The incision should be no more than 3 cm above the pubic symphysis. The trocar should be inserted 30° toward the bladder, i.e., away from the pubic symphysis (if in doubt, a small-gauge needle should be inserted for orientation); the trocar should not be placed in a vertical direction. The depth of trocar insertion should be monitored, using gentle pressure on the trocar to prevent damage to the bladder base.

CAUTION!

The needle may pierce a loop of bowel that is lying over the anterior surface of the bladder.
See also: aspiration