Intensive Care Medicine (ICM) Practice Exam

What is the most common complication in a permanent urethral catheter?

1. Erosion of the urethra

2. Infection

3. Spasm in the urinary bladder

4. Damage of the sphincter

The correct answer is: Infection

In the context of a permanent urethral catheter, infection stands out as the most common complication. This is primarily due to the introduction of a foreign body into the urinary tract, which can provide a pathway for bacteria to enter and proliferate. The presence of the catheter can disrupt normal urinary flow and make it easier for pathogens to colonize, leading to urinary tract infections (UTIs). Additionally, the longer the catheter remains in place, the higher the risk of biofilm formation, further increasing the likelihood of infection. Other complications, while possible, occur less frequently in comparison. Erosion of the urethra typically happens over a much longer duration and is more related to poor catheter management or improper sizing, though it is a serious issue when it does arise. Spasms in the urinary bladder can occur but are generally a less common complication associated with inherent irritations from the catheter itself. Damage to the sphincter is also uncommon in the context of catheter use and often requires significant external factors or trauma to occur. Thus, the prevalence of urinary tract infections associated with permanent urethral catheters makes infection the most common complication in this scenario.