Intermittent Catheterization (IC)

Abstract

Catheter drainage of the lower urinary tract in patients with neurogenic bladder seeks to maintain low bladder pressures that protect the kidneys, minimize urinary tract infections (UTIs), and achieve dryness to prevent decubitus ulcers and for social reasons. In mild cases of neurogenic voiding impairment, timed voiding and assistive maneuvers can achieve these goals and should always be attempted prior to instituting catheterization. External devices, in the form of condom catheters, may be preferable for men, when low pressure incontinence due to poor outlet resistance is the dominant issue.