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

**Authors:** Sara E Hariz, Priti Pradhan

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.80674 · 2025-03-16

## 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.

## Key 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.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** acute kidney injury (MONDO:0002492), neurogenic bladder (MONDO:0001445)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** bladder obstruction (MESH:D001748), Obstructive Uropathy (MESH:C536483), acute kidney injury (MESH:D058186), neurogenic bladder (MESH:D001750)
- **Chemicals:** Foley (-)

## Figures

2 figures with captions in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11911550/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11911550