PI2011088

Hamstel Road
Harlow, Essex
CM20 1QX

Information for patients

Trial without Catheter

(TWOC)
What is a trial without
catheter?

A trial without catheter is when a catheter which

has been inserted via the urethra (water pipe) is
removed from the bladder to determine whether
you are able to pass urine normally.

What should I expect on the

day of the procedure?

The procedure will be fully explained to you

again by your practitioner

the catheter will be removed by deflating

the balloon with a syringe. It will then be
removed slowly and gently until pulled out
completely

you will be asked to drink fluids once the

catheter is removed. We provide water, but if
you require anything else then please bring
this with you

you will remain in your own clothes for this

procedure. However, it may be advisable
to bring a spare set of trousers and under
garments with you.

once you feel able to pass urine, you will pass

this in the toilet or you may also be asked to
pass urine in a bottle/jug so that this can be
measured

after about four hours following the removal

of your catheter, the practitioner will perform
a bladder scan to see if you are managing to
empty your bladder properly

if your bladder is not emptying properly, or if

you have any difficulty passing urine, then you
will be re-catheterised or intervention will be
arranged

if you do not require re-catheterisation, you

will be sent home with some written advice
and appropriate follow-up will be arranged.

If you have any mobility problems, or any other

special needs, please let us know in advance so
that we can make any necessary arrangements to
accommodate you.

Tel: 01279 444455

What will happen once the

catheter has been removed?

You will be encouraged to fill your bladder slowly

by drinking sufficient fluid. This normally entails
drinking a pint or more throughout the morning.

What happens if I cannot pass

urine?

If you are unable to pass urine, a new catheter may

be inserted or, with your agreement, you may be
taught intermittent self-catheterisation (how to
put a catheter in yourself).
Once you are home, after the catheter has been
removed if you are unable to pass urine, please
visit your nearest A&E department.
If you require re-catheterisation, you will be
automatically referred back to your consultant
urologist for further assessment.
If self-catheterisation is required, your specialist
nurse will provide you with everything you need
for this and will continue to monitor your progress
at subsequent outpatient appointments.

Where can I get more

information?
The British Association of Urological
Surgeons
http://www.baus.org.uk/Resources/BAUS/
Documents/PDF%20Documents/Patient%20
information/TWOC.pdf
PAH Hospitals cannot accept responsibility for
information provided by external organisations.

Contact details

Main switchboard: 01279 444455

Oak Unit (Outpatient urology services)
St Margaret's Hospital, The Plain, Epping CM16 6TN
Tel: 01279 444455 extension 5407
continued overleaf

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EPPING

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