All Products
Also known as
Clean Intermittent Catheterization (CIC), Intermittent Self-Catheterization (ISC), Clean Intermittent Self-Catheterization (CISC), Self-Catheterization, Periodic Catheterization
Definition
Clean catheterization, also known as clean intermittent catheterization (CIC), is a medical procedure involving the periodic insertion of a catheter through the urethra into the bladder to drain urine completely.¹ This technique is performed at regular intervals throughout the day, typically every four to six hours, with the catheter being removed immediately after the bladder is emptied.² Unlike indwelling catheterization, clean catheterization allows the bladder to fill and empty in a more physiological manner, helping to preserve bladder function and reduce complications.³ The term “clean” indicates that while proper hand hygiene and cleanliness are essential, full sterile technique is not required, making it suitable for self-administration by patients or caregivers in home settings.⁴
Clinical Context
Clean catheterization is primarily indicated for patients with bladder emptying dysfunction or urinary retention resulting from various medical conditions.¹ These conditions include neurogenic bladder due to multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, or Parkinson’s disease.² Post-surgical urinary retention, particularly after gynecological or prostate procedures, often requires temporary clean catheterization.³ Other indications include urinary retention due to enlarged prostate, urethral strictures, or bladder outlet obstruction.⁴
Patient selection criteria include adequate hand dexterity (or access to a caregiver who can perform the procedure), ability to follow cleaning and insertion instructions, and anatomical structures that allow for catheter insertion.¹ The procedure is typically performed 4-6 times daily to prevent complications associated with incomplete bladder emptying, such as urinary tract infections, bladder damage, and kidney damage.²
Clinical evidence demonstrates that clean intermittent catheterization significantly lowers the incidence of urinary tract infections compared to indwelling catheterization (relative risk = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.20 to 0.28).³ It also reduces residual urine volume, shortens the duration of catheter maintenance, and improves bladder function recovery.³ For long-term management, single-use hydrophilic-coated catheters may reduce the risk of UTIs compared to reusable catheters, though patient dexterity and ability to handle the catheter must be considered in the selection process.⁴