Is Urine Catheterization Procedure Safe?

Posted on Mon, 18 May 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 18 May 2015 Answered on

Mon, 8 Jun 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Query for Dr. Grzegorz Stanko
I went to a urologist, he put a catheter in and prescribe flomax for me.
The medicine doesn't seem to be helping I'm having to self catheterize now. The doctor feels as though a shaving of the urinary tract through the prostate area will help me. Is this a common procedure for someone in my position?

Answered by Dr. Grzegorz Stanko (13 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes this is common procedure.

Detailed Answer:
Yes, this is common procedure. It is called TURP. Through urethra special camera and tools are inserted and the part of prostate which impedes urine flow removed. It is quite safe and can greatly help in proper urination.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Grzegorz Stanko (26 minutes later)

Thanks that's comforting.
Is this a symptom of cancer

Answered by Dr. Grzegorz Stanko (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Cancer is less probable.

Detailed Answer:
This can be a sign of cancer. This is however less probable. Urologist should perform transrectal ultrasound and consider biopsy of any suspicious area.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar