suprapubic catheter [L, supra + pubis + Gk, katheter, a thing lowered into] , a urinary bladder catheter inserted through the skin about 1 inch above the symphysis pubis. It is inserted under a general or local anesthetic. It is used for closed drainage and may be left in place for a time, sutured to the abdominal skin. Benefits include a lower incidence of urinary tract infection, ease of voiding naturally when the catheter is clamped, and ease of ambulation. Disadvantages are that they must initially be inserted through the abdominal wall by a physician and the insertion site must be cleaned daily using sterile technique if the patient is in the hospital.
