Obstructive Uropathy Secondary to Accidental Ureteric Placement of an Indwelling Urinary Catheter at the Time of Caesarean Section: A Case Report

TL;DR

A rare case of kidney injury caused by a urinary catheter mistakenly placed in the ureter during a C-section is reported, highlighting the need for awareness.

Contribution

This case report adds to the understanding of catheter-related complications during pregnancy.

Findings

Accidental ureteric catheter placement during C-section can cause bladder obstruction and acute kidney injury.

Pregnancy-related physiological changes may increase the risk of this complication.

Prompt recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term damage.

Abstract

This case describes a rare complication of Foley catheter insertion where accidental instrumentation of a ureter occurred at the time of caesarean section with the subsequent development of bladder obstruction and acute kidney injury. Rapid identification and management can minimise the associated long-term implications; this therefore necessitates greater awareness of this possible complication. The current understanding of this condition recognises neurogenic bladder and female sex as risk factors; however, physiological changes in pregnancy may also act as a significant risk factor for this complication.

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