Call: How to Catheterize Through a Stoma Following Mitrofanoff Surgery
Learning how to catheterize through a stoma after Mitrofanoff surgery can feel like a lot at first. You may have questions about where the catheter goes, what supplies you’ll need, and how the process will fit into your daily routine.
This guide walks through the basic steps for catheterizing through a Mitrofanoff stoma and shares helpful resources as you get more comfortable with your new routine.
What Is Mitrofanoff Surgery?
A Mitrofanoff surgery is a procedure in which a surgeon cuts a piece of tubular tissue and creates a conduit from a stoma to the bladder. An individual with a Mitrofanoff empties the bladder by passing an intermittent catheter through the stoma into the bladder.
For some, a Mitrofanoff has advantages over a suprapubic because there is no indwelling Foley tube or a collection bag. Also, the stoma is visible and accessible, making it easier than inserting a catheter into the urethra.
This enables a person with limited hand dexterity who can’t catheterize through the urethra to manage the bladder independently. Another advantage is that the stoma is so easy to see and reach, cathing can be accomplished from a chair or wheelchair.
This procedure is becoming more and more common for those with bladder problems due to spina bifida, bladder exstrophy, or bladder obstruction.
Which Type of Catheter Is Ideal When Cathing Through a Stoma?
So, which type of catheter is right for you? It depends on each individual’s anatomy, needs, and personal preferences. At 180 Medical, you can choose from various catheter materials, sizes, and types.
Every catheter type has two tip options: straight or coudé. While each case is different, straight catheters are commonly used by individuals when catheterizing through a stoma.
Here at 180 Medical, we have many straight tip catheters to choose from. These are also available as pocket catheters, which come in a curved or U-shaped package and can be easily concealed.
How to Catheterize Through a Stoma
Cathing through a stoma after Mitrofanoff surgery doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s so easy that even children can learn! With the 180 Medical Kids Club Program, we show children how easy it is to catheterize through a stoma. If you have children who would benefit from receiving this information, we encourage you to visit our Kids Club page.
Below are the steps to teach you how to use a straight intermittent catheter through a stoma.
1. Wash Your Hands
It’s important to always keep yourself free from bacteria and germs. Be sure to get all your supplies ready and wash your hands with soap and water.
2. Wash the Area Around Your Stoma
Gently wash around your stoma with warm, soapy water. Betadine swab sticks or benzalkonium (BZK) wipes work well for cleaning around your stoma.
3. Lubricate the Catheter
Each catheter has specific instructions on the package. Some catheters come with lubricating jelly, while others do not. If your catheter comes with lubricating jelly or is already pre-lubricated, follow the instructions on the package.
If your catheter does not come with lubrication, you need to use catheter lubricant to minimize friction during self-catheterization. We have catheter lubricant you can request from our website.
4. Insert the Catheter
Insert your catheter into the stoma slowly. When the urine comes out, insert the catheter a little more. Be sure to let the urine go into a toilet or container. When the urine stops flowing, slowly remove the catheter from the stoma.
5. Throw Away the Catheter and Wash Hands
Throw the catheter away and wash your hands again.
Want to Learn More About How to Catheterize Through a Stoma?
At 180 Medical, we do everything in our power to provide you with the products and resources you need, whether you need catheters after stroganoff surgery or have another condition.
180 Medical also offers a great resource for parents and children —the 180 Medical Kids Club. We include helpful pictorial instructions for how to catch a stoma, fun games, a colorful storybook with relatable characters, and more!
We also offer free catheter samples in sizes that will best suit your personal needs. Our pediatric catheter specialists can assist you every step of the way. If you have any questions or concerns about catheterizing through a stoma, contact us today. Our Specialists are here to help.
Disclaimer: This is intended to provide a general understanding of self-catheterization. It should not be used in place of a visit, call, or consultation with a physician or other healthcare provider.
