Suprapubic Catheter Placement Using the Seldinger Technique

The Seldinger Technique

The Seldinger technique is a guidewire-assisted approach used to gain controlled access to the bladder prior to inserting a sheath dilator and catheter suprapubically. It is recognised as a highly precise, safer, and less traumatic method of catheter insertion compared to blind insertion.

Key Features:

• Controlled Entry: Involves needle access, guidewire placement, dilation, and catheter insertion [2].

• Highly Adaptable: Suitable for bedside or in the operating theatre and can be used in conjunction with imaging guidance [3].

Advantages:

• Supports elective and emergency use [1].

• Lower Complication Rates: One study found catheter occlusion was more frequent in the blind trocar group (41.7%) versus the Seldinger group (16.9%) [4].

• Enhanced Safety Profile: Guidewire-assisted placement minimises trauma to surrounding tissues [5].

• Versatility: Can be combined with ultrasound for increased precision across various clinical settings [6].

Financial Advantages:

• Reduced Operating Theatre Utilisation – The guided, stepwise technique allows for bedside insertion, eliminating the need for operating theatre time and associated staff overheads [7].

• Shorter Lengths of Stay – When performed in theatre settings, patients can often be discharged the same day. This reduces hospital bed occupancy and improves throughput [8].

• Fewer Complications – The precision of the Seldinger technique results in fewer adverse events such as bowel perforation, hematuria, and catheter misplacement. This reduces the cost of managing complications and prevents unnecessary readmissions [9].

The adoption of the Seldinger technique signifies a vital evolution in urology care. Offering enhanced safety, greater accuracy, and improved patient comfort, this approach effectively addresses the limitations of traditional blind methods.

Mediplus S-Cath™ System

A standout example of this evolution is our S-Cath™ System, which applies the Seldinger technique to deliver a comprehensive, user-friendly solution. Its patented 3-stage guidewire design enhances control and minimises trauma, enabling safer, more accurate catheter placement. Supplied as a sterile, complete kit – including a needle, guidewire, sheath dilator, silicone Foley catheter, scalpel, and syringes—the system supports both inpatient and outpatient use across adult and children’s populations. As healthcare providers work to reduce complications and improve efficiency, advanced devices like the S-Cath™ System offer a precise, low-risk, minimally invasive SPC solution that elevates patient care.