A false passage is when an object, such as a catheter or surgical device, passes through the wall of the urethra.
A false passage can occur when too much force is used to pass a catheter. People with enlarged prostate or urethral strictures, as well as people with urethral sphincter spasm, are at a greater risk because more force is often needed to pass a catheter.
Signs and symptoms of a false passage
You may have a false passage if you have:
- Difficulty passing a catheter
- Bleeding
- Pain.
Management options
If a false passage occurs, it is recommended that an indwelling catheter is used for 4-6 weeks to allow time for the false passage to heal.
