Need of Ultrasound in Emergency Department for Suprapubic Catheterization

Acute retention of urine is a medical emergency which needs immediate intervention. Urethral catheterization is a common procedure in the emergency department. Repeated unsuccessful attempts for urethral catheterization demand alternative procedure like suprapubic catheterization. Traditionlly, anatomical landmarks are used to achieve suprapubic catheterization. The confirmation of successful catheterization by ultrasound is recommended. Often due to its unavailability, complications like bowel injury, bleeding etc are reported.