What is a three-way Foley catheter used for?

A three-way Foley catheter is specifically designed to allow for continuous bladder irrigation. This type of catheter has three lumens: one for drainage of urine, one for continuous irrigation, and a third for inflating the balloon that holds the catheter in place. Continuous bladder irrigation is often necessary in situations such as after certain urologic surgeries, where it helps to prevent clot formation, manage bleeding, and flush out any debris or potential blockages from the bladder.

The design of a three-way Foley catheter ensures that while urine is being drained, a sterile solution can simultaneously flow into the bladder to maintain a clear and functioning urinary tract. This is essential in both preventing complications and promoting recovery after surgical interventions involving the bladder.

While other functions like urethral dilation, medication administration, and bladder pressure measurement are important aspects of urologic care, they do not specifically utilize a three-way Foley catheter in the context of continuous irrigation. The specific function of continuous irrigation highlights the unique utility of this catheter type in clinical practice.