Question
My child is 3 years old and has just had surgery. They are currently wearing a catheter, but they want to remove it. Do children need to have a catheter removed when discharged after urethral rupture surgery?
Answer
Generally, it is not necessary to remove the catheter when a child is discharged after urethral rupture surgery. Usually, the incision will heal well and the condition will stabilize within about one week after the surgery, at which point the catheter can be removed from the hospital. It is recommended to maintain a clear urethra at home by drinking plenty of water and paying attention to the urine’s condition. If the catheter becomes blocked or breaks, it should be removed within three weeks. Otherwise, the catheter can be removed at the local hospital after surgery.