PSP and catheters!

[SurreyK]

Dad, 80, (PSP for approx 4 years) had a catheter fitted in hospital in Sept. This was huge relief for both Mum and Dad. The last time the district nurses came out to change it, about three weeks ago, they had a problem getting the new one in and Dad ended up in hospital where the urologist refitted it. In the last week or so Dad has been getting bad pains/spasms … we managed to persuade him to take some paracetamol to relieve the pain this afternoon and are awaiting a call back from the district nurses. We have had conversations about the supra pubic catheter and are now wondering if this might be the best way forward. We are worried about Dad going under anaesthetic to have this procedure - does anyone have any experiences of the comparisons in the two catheters and, whether it’s safe to go under GA with PSP? Thank you in advance x

[Stormtrooper4]

Hi. My dad had CBD and each time he had a catheter change they struggled to get the new one in and then suffered with leaks and blockages.

We ended up swapping to the external catheter which goes on like a condom and this was much better, although if your dad is a bit of a wriggler it can sometimes come off. Dad had carers and they used to change it for him.

Just an idea

[bichonbear1]

Hi, we stopped using a catheter for my mum due to blockages, infections, it falling out etc etc….although less “convenient” using pads, infections have reduced and we don’t miss the catheter issues. Mum got kidney stone problems, probably linked to catheter issues and had to have 2 operations whilst in fairly advanced stages of CBD. We were terrified as to how her body would cope with GA but she recovered from it both times remarkably, a slight deterioration after the 2nd. I wouldn’t be keen for her to have a GA again as I am sure there is only so much the body can take. We had to deal with the kidney stones though so little choice. Hope this info helps.