Trans-Abdominal Ultrasound-Guided Suprapubic Puncture of a Non-Deflating Foley Catheter Balloon

Abstract

Failure of a Foley catheter balloon to deflate is a frustrating problem to both the patient and the doctor. We report a case of non-deflating Foley catheter balloon successfully deflated by needle puncture via the suprapubic route under trans-abdominal ultrasound guidance by emergency physicians. The procedure is simple and safe. We believe that all emergency physicians with adequate knowledge and minimal training can acquire the technique. The choices of different methods to deflate the balloon are also discussed.