How is it performed? of Urinary catheterization

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The sterilized catheter is lubricated with a sterile gel and pushed in through the normal urine passage (the urethra). Sometimes, however, the urethra is so narrowed (urethral stricture) by inflammation that a catheter cannot be passed through.

If this happens, the bladder is entered through the wall of the abdomen, immediately above the pubic bone, using a cannula (small tube), which is then replaced by a rubber or plastic catheter.

Catheterization in a woman is easier than in a man because the urethra is much shorter and there is no prostate gland. In either case, however, there is a risk of infection, especially if the catheter has to be left in place for a long time (known as an indwelling catheter).